Leroy Sané has completed his move to Galatasaray on a free transfer. He is signing a three-year contract worth €15 million per season after tax.
The 29-year-old German winger’s deal with Bayern Munich expired at the end of June, allowing him to join the Turkish giants without a transfer fee. He is expected to fly to Istanbul tonight for his medical and official contract signing.
Arsenal Misses Out on Free Agent
Sané had attracted interest from several top clubs, with Arsenal (3.51) leading the chase for much of the summer. The Gunners held talks with senior figures close to the player, but Sané wanted a quicker resolution to his future.
Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal (9.20) and Turkish rivals Fenerbahce (7.40) were also in the running, but Galatasaray’s persistence over recent weeks has paid off.
The move represents a significant coup for the Istanbul club, which has secured one of Europe’s most experienced wingers without paying a transfer fee.
End of Bayern Chapter
Sané’s departure closes a five-year chapter at Bayern Munich (1.01) that brought mixed success. He arrived from Manchester City (1.08) in 2020 for an initial €49 million, with €11 million in potential add-ons.
During his time in Bavaria, Sané won three consecutive Bundesliga titles before Bayer Leverkusen (51.16) broke Bayern’s dominance last season. He registered 61 goals and 55 assists in 220 appearances across all competitions.
Last season proved challenging for Sané, who managed just 25 starts despite appearing in 45 games. He still contributed 13 goals and six assists, showing glimpses of the form that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after wingers.
Turbulent Bayern Spell
Sané’s Bayern career was marked by constant change, playing under five different managers during his five seasons. He worked with Hansi Flick, Julian Nagelsmann, Thomas Tuchel, and, most recently, Vincent Kompany, adapting to different tactical systems throughout.
The winger’s relationship with various coaches was often scrutinised, with questions raised about his consistency and application. Despite this, he remained a regular squad member and contributed to Bayern’s domestic success.
Missing Club World Cup
Sané will not travel to the United States with Bayern’s squad for the Club World Cup, despite his contract technically running until the end of June. Galatasaray pushed hard to prevent him from joining the tournament, preferring to complete the transfer immediately.
Bayern have sufficient cover on the wings with Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman, and other options available, meaning Sané’s absence should not impact their preparations significantly.
Career Reset at 29
The move to Turkey represents a fresh start for Sané, who has struggled to recapture his best form since leaving Manchester City. At City, he won two Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola and was considered one of the league’s most dangerous wide players.
His pace and direct running made him a nightmare for Premier League defenders between 2016 and 2020. Injuries disrupted his final season at the Etihad Stadium, prompting his return to Germany.
Galatasaray’s Statement Signing
For Galatasaray, landing Sané represents their biggest signing in recent years. The Turkish champions have been active in the transfer market, looking to build a squad capable of competing in both domestic and European competitions.
Sané’s €15 million annual salary makes him one of the highest-paid players in Turkish soccer, underlining Galatasaray’s ambition to return to the upper echelons of European soccer.
The deal runs until 2028, giving the Istanbul club three years to maximise their investment in the experienced international winger.
