Godwin ObajeEverton Plot £17m Move for Versatile Galatasaray Star Baris Alper Yilmaz
Everton are preparing to table an official bid for Galatasaray’s Baris Alper Yilmaz in what is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most transformative transfer windows in the club’s modern history.
The Toffees, led by returning manager David Moyes, have already identified the Turkish international as a primary attacking target and are reportedly ready to offer in the region of £17million for his services. However, Galatasaray are understood to be holding out for closer to £30million – a significant valuation for a player many consider to be among the brightest talents in Turkish football.
According to Turkish outlet A Spor, Everton have already made contact with the Super Lig champions and are now expected to follow up with a formal offer.
High on Moyes’ Wish List
Yilmaz, 25, enjoyed a standout season in the Turkish top flight, registering 12 goals and contributing significantly to Galatasaray’s domestic dominance. His form hasn’t gone unnoticed across Europe, with several clubs monitoring his progress. But it is Everton who appear ready to take the next step, seeing him as a key component in Moyes’ plans for the upcoming Premier League campaign.
With several first-team players out of contract and squad depth an ongoing concern, the Merseyside club are poised to be active across multiple positions this summer. As it stands, Moyes has one of the leanest squads in the division, and insiders believe the former West Ham boss could look to bring in as many as ten players before the window closes.
Versatility is understood to be a key quality Moyes is prioritising in this summer’s rebuild – and Yilmaz fits the bill perfectly.
A Player Compared to Gareth Bale
Yilmaz’s style and dynamism have drawn flattering comparisons with Gareth Bale in his pomp. Though perhaps not yet at the same level, the similarities are evident: explosive pace, a direct dribbling style, and the ability to influence games from either wing or centrally.
Described in Turkish press circles as a “special” talent, Yilmaz’s rise has been steady but impressive. After initially making his name at Ankara Keciorengucu, he earned a move to Galatasaray in 2021, and under the guidance of manager Okan Buruk, he has developed into a key attacking threat.
While he is most comfortable on either flank – frequently operating from the right where he can cut inside on his favoured left foot – Yilmaz has also featured as a central striker and, on rare occasions, even at right-back. That level of tactical flexibility is not lost on Moyes, who is seeking multi-functional players as he builds a squad capable of navigating the demands of a long domestic and cup campaign.
“Yilmaz’s versatility could make him a useful option for Moyes,” A Spor noted, adding: “The Scottish manager will need players to cover a host of positions, considering the lack of options he currently has.”
With the loan spells of Jesper Lindstrom and Jack Harrison now concluded, Everton are short on reliable wide options. Yilmaz could immediately challenge for a starting role on the right wing, while also offering cover across the forward line.
Yilmaz by the Numbers
Yilmaz’s league statistics from the 2024/25 campaign underline his growing influence. In 32 total appearances (29 starts), he scored 12 goals and recorded a match average rating of 7.25, ranking fourth among his teammates. He also averaged 1.4 key passes and 1.4 successful dribbles per game – both ranking in the top six for the squad – while taking 2.4 shots per game, the second-highest figure in the team.
These are the numbers of a forward not only with flair but with end product. And while £30million may seem steep for a player outside the traditional ‘big five’ European leagues, Everton’s willingness to negotiate around £17million signals real intent.
The New Era Under Moyes
Moyes’ return to Goodison Park has brought with it a renewed sense of pragmatism and discipline. But the challenge he faces is significant. Everton’s brush with relegation and financial instability in recent seasons has forced a rethink, both in terms of squad structure and recruitment.
The club’s recent pursuit of Chelsea striker Liam Delap – who ultimately moved to Stamford Bridge following Ipswich’s relegation – was a clear indication that Everton are targeting young, hungry players with room to grow, rather than over-reliance on established stars.
Yilmaz fits into that profile perfectly. Still only 25 and with significant international and European experience, he’s seen as a player entering his peak years.
His attitude, athleticism and tactical adaptability align with Moyes’ traditional footballing values – hard-working, reliable, and ready to improve. There’s also the added benefit of resale value, something Everton’s recruitment department is keen to factor into all major deals moving forward.
A Statement of Intent?
If the Yilmaz move materialises, it would represent a real statement of ambition from the Toffees – not just in terms of finances, but in identifying emerging European talent before their value skyrockets.
While negotiations with Galatasaray are still ongoing, and the Turkish giants are understandably reluctant to lose a key asset without securing top value, Everton’s willingness to get business done early could work in their favour. European clubs outside of England are often more open to deals early in the window, before pre-season begins in earnest.
For now, the ball is in Galatasaray’s court. Everton’s offer – rumoured to be in the region of £17million – may fall short of the Turkish side’s expectations, but a middle ground could yet be found.
And if Moyes can convince Yilmaz of his vision at Goodison Park, the versatile forward could soon find himself lighting up the Premier League.
Final Thoughts
Everton’s summer rebuild is gathering momentum, and Baris Alper Yilmaz is now firmly in their sights. With a bid on the table and the need for attacking reinforcements growing by the day, this could be one of the most significant deals of the window for the blue half of Merseyside.
A “special” player with the tools to make a real impact in England, Yilmaz represents both the present and future of a more ambitious, more strategic Everton.
And if comparisons with Gareth Bale continue, fans at Goodison may just be about to welcome a very different kind of winger to L4.
Godwin Obaje
