Leroy Sane turns down Saudi offers as Galatasaray commitment becomes clear

German winger Leroy Sane has decided against moving to Saudi Arabia this summer and intends to remain with Galatasaray for the new season, despite sustained interest from Al Hilal.

According to Saudi newspaper Al Yaum, Sane received approaches from clubs in Saudi Arabia during the current transfer window. However, the Galatasaray winger has not shown a desire to begin a new chapter in the country and instead prefers to continue wearing the Turkish club’s colours.

Al Hilal had emerged as one of the leading contenders for Sane’s signature, with the player’s name repeatedly linked with the Riyadh-based club in recent weeks. Reports had suggested that Al Hilal could explore a swap deal with Galatasaray, involving the transfer of defender Yusuf Akcicek to the Turkish side in exchange for Sane moving to Saudi Arabia.

That possibility has now receded considerably. Galatasaray are determined to retain Sane, while the player himself is understood to prefer continuing his spell with the Turkish champions rather than joining the Roshn Saudi League during the current transfer window.

Okan Buruk played key role in Sane decision

Turkish reports say Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk held several one-to-one meetings with Sane in recent weeks to discuss the winger’s future.

During those conversations, Buruk stressed how important Sane would be to the team’s plans for the coming campaign. Those discussions strengthened the player’s position at the club and helped convince him to remain in Istanbul.

Sane is highly trusted by Galatasaray’s coaching staff, who regard him as an important part of their squad for the new season. His experience and ability to influence major matches have made him a central figure in the club’s plans and increased Galatasaray’s determination to keep him.

The winger joined Galatasaray in summer 2025 after leaving Bayern Munich. He is contracted to the Turkish club until 30 June 2028.

Before moving to Turkey, Sane enjoyed prominent spells with Manchester City and Bayern Munich. He has now chosen to continue his career with Galatasaray rather than accept a move to Al Hilal or another Saudi club.

The decision closes off, for now, a transfer route that had remained a talking point around the player throughout the summer. With Galatasaray prepared to retain him and Sane favouring continuity, the proposed move to Saudi Arabia appears increasingly unlikely.