English Premier League
Galatasaray target Abde Ezzalzouli as alternative to Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli
Galatasaray have identified Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli as a potential transfer target if they are unable to complete a deal for Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli.
The Turkish club have reportedly offered €45m for Brazil international Martinelli, but Arsenal have yet to accept the proposal. That has prompted Galatasaray to consider Ezzalzouli as an alternative option during the current transfer window.
Reports in the Turkish media, cited by Mundo Deportivo, say negotiations over Martinelli remain unresolved. Turkish newspaper Fanatik has also described the Real Betis winger as Galatasaray’s back-up plan should discussions for the Arsenal player fail to progress.
Ezzalzouli, who represents Morocco internationally, remains under contract at Real Betis. Barcelona are entitled to about 20% of any future sale of the winger, according to the reports, while Real Betis are understood to be unwilling to let him leave without a substantial offer.
Real Betis have not received an official bid from Galatasaray for Ezzalzouli so far. The Spanish club are reportedly prepared to consider his sale only if an offer approaches the value of his release clause, which is estimated at about €60m.
The 23-year-old is currently completing the final stage of his rehabilitation programme after suffering an injury while on international duty with Morocco. That problem ruled him out of the World Cup.
Ezzalzouli was not included in the Real Betis squad that travelled to Bari in Italy ahead of Saturday’s friendly against Inter. The match is the Andalusian club’s final fixture of their preparations for the new season.
Ezzalzouli joined Real Betis after developing through Barcelona’s system and has established himself as an important wide option for the Spanish side. However, his current injury situation means he is still working towards a return to full fitness, while the reports about Galatasaray’s interest have not yet resulted in a formal approach.
Real Betis confirm Pablo Busto move
Real Betis have also announced the departure of young defender Pablo Busto, who has completed a move to Ibiza.
The right-back has signed a two-year contract with Ibiza. The transfer has been completed without a fee, although Real Betis have retained 35% of the player’s future rights.
Busto is 20 and previously made two appearances for Real Betis’ first team under manager Manuel Pellegrini. Both of those appearances came in La Liga during the 2023-24 season.
His contract with Real Betis had been due to run until June 2027. The club nevertheless agreed to allow him to join Ibiza while preserving a share of any future value attached to the defender.
