Transfers

£20m target claims ‘there were meetings’ with Arsenal officials over transfer

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Galatasaray defender Sacha Boey has now revealed that transfer talks with Arsenal took place, amidst speculation that Mikel Arteta could look to sign him.

The 23-year-old is a highly-rated right back, and has been a standout performer for the Turkish giants, leading to rumours that he could be set for a big move.

He was linked with a move to Arsenal over the summer, with his club setting a reported £20m asking price, before the Gunners signed Jurrien Timber, who picked up a long-term injury on his Premier League debut.

It previously emerged that Arsenal had been scouting Boey, but the player has now revealed that transfer talks between the two clubs took place.

Sacha Boey reveals Arsenal talks

Speaking prior to Galatasaray’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, Boey revealed that there were a number of clubs interested, including Arsenal, but no bid was formally sent.

“I had contact with clubs in the summer. There were opportunities for me to go to the Premier League,” he stated.

“There were some meetings between Galatasaray officials & Arsenal officials.

“There was interest, but there was no official offer.”

Arsenal’s interest in Sacha Boey

Zalgiris v Galatasaray - UEFA Champions League Qualifying Preview
Photo by Jakub Porzycki/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Arsenal’s interest came before signing Timber, with it clear that Arteta wanted another option at fullback.

With Timber injured, and Arsenal not blessed with a lot of depth at the back, Boey could be an option in the January transfer window if the club are keep to strengthen their defensive options.

Boey is robust, having played every minute in all competitions for Galatasaray this season, which included their impressive Champions League victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, a game which saw fellow Arsenal target Kerem Akturkoglu score.

The Frenchman would likely be open to a move if Arsenal make an offer, and it now remains to be seen what Arteta’s priority in the January window will be.