Leroy Sane rejects Al-Hilal move and chooses to stay at Galatasaray

German winger Leroy Sane has decided to remain at Galatasaray despite receiving offers from Saudi Arabia, ending Al-Hilal’s hopes of signing him during the current transfer window.

Sane, who joined the Turkish champions, had been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in recent weeks, with Al-Hilal among the clubs reportedly interested in securing his services.

However, according to Saudi newspaper Al-Youm, the 30-year-old has no desire to leave Galatasaray and has opted to continue with the club for the new season.

Al-Hilal interest falls through

Al-Hilal had emerged as one of the strongest contenders for Sane’s signature, with reports suggesting the Saudi club had explored the possibility of a swap deal with Galatasaray.

The proposed arrangement could have seen Al-Hilal defender Yusuf Akcisik move to the Turkish side as part of a deal that would have taken Sane to Riyadh.

Those plans have now been severely weakened by Sane’s decision to remain in Turkey.

Galatasaray have also been determined to keep the Germany international, further reducing the likelihood of a move to the Roshn Saudi League.

Buruk plays key role in decision

Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk is understood to have played an important role in convincing Sane to stay.

Turkish reports say Buruk held several individual meetings with the winger to discuss his future and stressed how important his continued presence would be to the team.

Those discussions reportedly strengthened Sane’s position at Galatasaray and contributed to his decision to remain with the Turkish champions.

Sane will therefore continue his career in Turkey for now, despite the growing financial attraction of the Saudi Pro League and interest from one of its biggest clubs.

His decision represents a setback for Al-Hilal, who will now have to look elsewhere as they continue to strengthen their squad for the new campaign.