North London Giants Outmaneuvered as Bayern Clinches Sane Sweepstakes
Galatasaray has successfully outmaneuvered Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and several other interested clubs to secure Leroy Sané on a free transfer, according to multiple sources.
The contract situation of the former Manchester City winger has been widely discussed among Bayern Munich circles. Initially, reports suggested Sané was close to extending his stay with the German club beyond his contract expiration date of June 30. However, a switch in his representation coincided with a noticeable change in his position regarding the renewal.
In May, Bayern Munich's board member for sport, Max Eberl, confirmed that Sané and his new representatives had turned down the contract terms proposed by the Bundesliga champions. This development created an opportunity for Arsenal and, as later revealed, Tottenham, to explore signing the accomplished league champion on a free transfer.
While Saudi club Al Hilal and José Mourinho's Fenerbahce also expressed interest, Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray has reportedly secured Sané's signature. Sky Sport Germany's Florian Plettenberg first disclosed Galatasaray's proposal in May, and the same media outlet announced on Wednesday morning that an agreement had been reached.
Both The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano indicated that a "broad agreement" on a three-year contract had been finalized, with numerous reports stating that Sané is expected to receive an annual salary of up to €15 million (£12.7 million, $17.1 million). Bayern had reportedly only been willing to offer a maximum of €12–13 million (£10.2–11 million, $13.7–14.9 million).
Arsenal was considered a "very strong contender" for Sané, who had developed a positive working relationship with Gunners manager Mikel Arteta during their time together at Manchester City. The German forward has frequently praised the influence his former coach had on specific elements of his playing style. "I can just say positive things about Mikel Arteta," he has previously stated.