Galatasaray set their sights on Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz

One of Galatasaray's most ambitious moves of the summer window has come to light. According to Ekrem Konur, the Yellow-Reds have made contact through intermediaries over Real Madrid's Moroccan attacker Brahim Diaz; the club's board will meet with the Spanish giants this week. Diaz is reported to be one of head coach Okan Buruk's priority targets.

Buruk's desired profile is quite clear. The head coach wants a versatile attacking player capable of operating both on the wings and in the number 10 role, and Diaz is thought to fit that profile perfectly. However, the player's first choice is reported to be staying at Real Madrid.

The fate of the transfer depends on Real Madrid's own internal dynamics. The club's final decision on Diaz is expected to become clear following new head coach Jose Mourinho's assessment during pre-season training camp; Diaz, who has fallen behind in the pecking order under Mourinho, is reported to appear closer to a departure.

The figures involved have also become clear. Galatasaray have earmarked €20 million for the 26-year-old's transfer; according to some sources, a loan structure could also be put on the table should the player show willingness to leave. Diaz, who came through Manchester City's academy before joining Real Madrid in 2019 and had two separate loan spells at Milan, has made a total of 163 appearances for Real Madrid, contributing 22 goals and 30 assists; last season he made 41 appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing 9 assists.

The player's international career is also notable. One of Morocco's key figures at the World Cup, with over 30 caps for his national team, Diaz has one year remaining on his Real Madrid contract; his current market value is listed at €35 million. It is also noted that Galatasaray's move is being conducted entirely independently of the club's ongoing pursuit of Julio Enciso.

Source: Ekrem Konur
Image: Transfermarkt