Galatasaray rejects Arsenal’s bid for Sacha Boey

Arsenal’s pursuit of Galatasaray right-back Sacha Boey has hit an initial roadblock as the Turkish club has rejected the Gunners’ opening bid, according to reports.

Sacha Boey, a French youth international, joined Galatasaray from Rennes in the summer of 2021 and has made a significant impact in his debut season, contributing one goal and four assists in 29 appearances as Galatasaray close in on the Turkish Super Lig title.

Despite Arsenal’s longstanding interest in the 22-year-old, their initial offer has fallen short of Galatasaray’s valuation.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Boey has been ongoing since March, with the Gunners reportedly considering him a priority target for the summer transfer window, amidst links to Aston Villa.

The Frenchman is currently valued at €11 million (£9.5 million) by Transfermarkt, but it seems Arsenal will have to significantly increase their offer to secure his services.

Turkish journalist Nevzat Dindar, as reported by the Daily Mail, has revealed that Arsenal submitted a bid of £14.7 million for Boey, which has been swiftly turned down by Galatasaray.

The Turkish club, eager to hold onto their prized asset, has informed Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu, that a fee of £21 million would be required to tempt them into selling.

If Boey were to make the move to North London, he would face competition from the likes of Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu for a starting role in Arsenal’s defense.

However, his potential arrival could also signal a positional shift for White, who may move into his more natural central defensive role, especially considering uncertainties surrounding William Saliba’s fitness ahead of the upcoming pre-season.

Boey’s impressive performances in the Turkish Super Lig have caught the attention of Arsenal. He currently holds the fifth-highest WhoScored rating among all players in the league this season and boasts the highest rating among players under 30.

His arrival at the Emirates Stadium could bolster Arsenal’s right-back position and contribute to their renewed aspirations of challenging for major honors.

However, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will meet Galatasaray’s asking price or if negotiations will continue between the two clubs in the coming weeks.