Transfer Centre

Arsenal to rival Liverpool for Galatasaray defender Sacha Boey?

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 20 March 2023

Arsenal to rival Liverpool for Sacha Boey?

Arsenal are reportedly contemplating whether to make an approach for Galatasaray defender Sacha Boey, who is also said to be interesting Liverpool.

Arsenal are reportedly ready to rival Liverpool in the race to sign Galatasaray defender Sacha Boey.

The 22-year-old is currently in his second year with the Turkish giants having failed to establish himself as a first-team regular at Rennes.

While his first campaign was average at best, Boey has emerged as a key player at Galatasaray as they bid to regain the Super Lig title.

The former France Under-20 international has made 22 starts this season, chipping in with just two assists but helping his team build a six-point lead in the race for the top-flight crown.

However, his consistency on the right-hand side of Galatasaray's defence has inevitably led to admirers in his signature, particularly when his contract expires in 2025.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta pictured on March 19, 2023 © Reuters

Ahead of the January window, Liverpool were credited with an interest in Boey, who is yet to decide whether to commit his international allegiances to France or Cameroon.

Although Liverpool are in the market for experienced competition for Trent Alexander-Arnold, it appears that they will not have a clear run at trying to sign Boey.

According to Aksam Spor, Arsenal are ready to prioritise a move for Boey this summer.

Ben White is the standout first choice at right-back under Mikel Arteta, but Takehiro Tomiyasu may be considered for a departure this summer due to injury and a lack of form.

Arsenal's Takehiro Tomiyasu comes off injured on March 16, 2023 © Reuters

Furthermore, the Japan international suffered what Arteta felt could prove to be a significant injury against Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League last week, potentially leaving the versatile full-back on 13 starts and 18 substitute outings for 2022-23.

The report states that Lyon have already failed with an €8m bid since Boey moved to Galatasaray, and his valuation has only increased this season.

As well as the Merseyside giants, Gunners and Lyon, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Sporting Lisbon are also said to be monitoring the situation ahead of the summer transfer window.

Galatasaray only paid in the region of £2.2m when they signed Boey in July 2021.