AliousForest Close in on £25m Galatasaray Star as Yilmaz Eyes Premier League Leap — Marinakis Ramps Up Transfer Drive
Nottingham Forest appear to be making headway in their pursuit of Galatasaray winger Baris Alper Yilmaz, with fresh reports from Turkey suggesting the player is now enthusiastic about a summer switch to the Premier League. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is reportedly leading the charge to complete the high-value transfer, with the deal potentially costing over £25 million.
As the race for a top-five finish intensifies, Forest’s desire to enhance their attacking options has only grown stronger. A Champions League berth remains within reach, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s men sitting just behind Chelsea and preparing for decisive fixtures—including a final-day clash with the Blues.
After battling back to draw against Crystal Palace, Nuno emphasized his team’s fighting spirit and underscored the importance of taking each game as it comes, especially with the Leicester City match next on the calendar.
Yilmaz, a long-term target for Forest, was previously linked in January but remained in Turkey. However, his standout campaign—12 goals and 10 assists—has reignited interest. Sources claim Forest are now willing to meet Galatasaray’s valuation, which is believed to be around €30 million.
The 24-year-old forward’s stock has continued to rise, with notable admirers including Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, who highlighted Yilmaz’s relentless pace and attacking intent after facing him in international competition. With Chris Wood’s form faltering, Forest see Yilmaz as a potential game-changer in the final third.
As Marinakis moves decisively behind the scenes, the addition of Yilmaz could not only aid Forest’s push for Europe but also mark a statement of intent for the club’s future in the Premier League and beyond.
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