Feyenoord Rotterdam are on the verge of finalising the signing of Malian midfielder Gaoussou Diarra from Istanbulspor in what could become the most expensive transfer in the history of the Turkish second division.
The Dutch giants have reportedly tabled an offer of €3.5 million for the 21-year-old, a figure that would eclipse the current transfer record for Turkey’s second tier by a significant margin.
The existing record stands at €2.5 million, a benchmark now set to be shattered if the deal receives final approval from Istanbulspor’s hierarchy.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Diarra has already agreed personal terms with Feyenoord, and the only remaining step in the process is the green light from the Istanbul club’s president.
Talks between the two clubs are said to be at an advanced stage, with a deal considered imminent.
Should the move be completed, it will represent a remarkable leap for both the player and his current club. Istanbulspor, who currently compete in the Turkish First League (1. Lig), stand to make a historic profit on a player who has drawn considerable attention for his dynamic performances in midfield.
Diarra’s rise has been closely watched by scouts across Europe, and his potential was evident throughout the 2023–24 season, where he was one of the standout players in the division.
Known for his composure, passing range, and tactical intelligence, he has quickly emerged as a central figure in Istanbulspor’s campaign, despite their limited visibility on the broader European stage.
Feyenoord’s pursuit of Diarra is in line with their recent strategy of investing in young, promising talent from outside the traditional big leagues.
The Dutch club, a mainstay in both Eredivisie and European competition, are believed to view the Malian as a long-term asset capable of contributing immediately while also possessing the potential for significant future value.
If the deal goes through, it will also represent a major milestone for the Turkish second division. Transfers of this magnitude are rare in the league, and such a fee would be a powerful endorsement of the growing quality of talent within its ranks. It could also signal a shift in the way clubs in the division approach player development and international exposure.
For Diarra, the move presents an opportunity to take a major step forward in his career. Transitioning from the Turkish 1. Lig to one of the Netherlands’ most prestigious clubs would place him in the spotlight of European football, potentially opening the door to appearances in continental competitions such as the UEFA Champions League or Europa League.
The deal is expected to be concluded in the coming days, barring any late complications. Both clubs have remained tight-lipped publicly, but insiders suggest all parties are optimistic about a swift and successful resolution.
As Feyenoord prepare to welcome one of West Africa’s brightest midfield prospects, and Istanbulspor look set to benefit from a record-breaking transfer fee, this agreement could prove to be one of the most significant deals of the summer window—not just for the clubs involved, but for Turkish second division football as a whole.
