Fenerbahçe Targets Yusuf Akçiçek for Center-Back Transfer

Fenerbahçe coach İsmail Kartal announced plans to sign a center-back after the Konyaspor match, targeting former player Yusuf Akçiçek, sold to Al‑Hilal for 22 million Euro. Kartal said the foreign quota and U23 slot make reinforcement difficult. Al‑Hilal’s 6 million Euro buy‑out clause and Fenerbahçe’s loan‑with‑option offer are in discussion.

Kartal’s Statement

Fenerbahçe head coach İsmail Kartal announced plans to sign a center‑back after the Konyaspor match. Following the 4-2 win, Kartal said, "We will add a reinforcement. The foreign quota makes it hard to find a U23 player. Even if we find one, the cost is high. We are working on it. The board is heavily involved in this matter."

Target: Yusuf Akçiçek

After Kartal’s remarks, the club’s target emerged as former player Yusuf Akçiçek. The 22‑year‑old center‑back was sold to Al‑Hilal for 22 million Euro last season. Al‑Hilal demands a 6 million Euro buy‑out clause. Fenerbahçe intends to loan Akçiçek with an option to purchase and has offered to cover part of his 6 million Euro annual salary.

Other Defensive Changes

Two other defensive departures are also in the news. Çağlar Söyüncü is reportedly not in the squad plans, and Jayden Oosterwolde has reportedly signed with Italian side Roma. These moves further highlight Fenerbahçe’s need for a new center‑back.