Galatasaray consider loan move for AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana

Galatasaray have made an approach for AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana as they look to strengthen their midfield before the transfer window closes.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Turkish club asked about Fofana’s situation during discussions with Milan over a possible deal for Rafa Leao. Galatasaray’s interest in the France international has emerged from those talks, with a loan move among the options being considered.

Fofana joined AC Milan from AS Monaco in the summer of 2024, but could already be prepared to take on a new challenge. The 25-year-old, who has won 25 caps for France, is reportedly open to moving to Galatasaray.

A temporary transfer would offer Fofana the possibility of securing more regular playing time. Galatasaray are considering whether a loan agreement could provide a solution that suits both the player and Milan, particularly given the club’s previous investment in the midfielder.

However, Galatasaray face competition for Fofana’s signature. Premier League clubs Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace, as well as Villarreal, have also shown an interest in the midfielder.

Juventus have examined the situation too. The Italian club have considered whether a potential player exchange with AC Milan could form part of a deal for Fofana.

The midfielder remains under contract at AC Milan until June 2028. His current estimated value is €23m, according to Transfermarkt.

Milan had previously been hoping to receive between €18m and €20m for a permanent transfer. That figure would represent a sizeable portion of the approximately €26m the club invested to sign Fofana from AS Monaco.

The possibility of a loan could therefore make negotiations with Galatasaray more straightforward. While a permanent deal would require Milan to reach an agreement close to their desired valuation, a temporary move could allow the clubs to continue discussions without an immediate full transfer.

Galatasaray are also preparing for their next domestic fixture. They will face Goztepe in the third round of the Turkish championship shortly.

The betting company 1xBet has listed Galatasaray as favourites for that match, with odds of 1.35 for a home win. A draw is priced at 4.30, while a Goztepe victory is listed at 6.10.

Fofana’s possible departure comes only a year after his arrival at Milan, following his spell with AS Monaco. His international experience and profile have attracted interest from several clubs, but Galatasaray’s discussions with Milan have placed them among the sides actively exploring a move before the end of the transfer window.