Galatasaray are reportedly unwilling to part with midfielder Gabriel Sara this summer, despite growing interest from Manchester United.
United have so far prioritised reinforcing their forward line in a bid to resolve the scoring issues that defined a lacklustre 2024/25 campaign.
Having announced the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers and with a deal for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo on the brink of completion in a total package worth more than £60m, United are set to turn their attention towards strengthening other areas of the squad.
In addition to signing a striker, the Red Devils are also believed to be eyeing a midfielder and potentially a goalkeeper, depending on what happens with Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir.
United’s need for additions in the middle of the park is especially urgent because of Christian Eriksen’s departure and the uncertainty surrounding Casemiro’s long-term future at Old Trafford.
Eriksen is set to officially part ways with the club once his contract expires at the end of the month, while Casemiro continues to be linked with a switch to the Saudi Pro League.
Earlier this month, a report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Gabriel Sara is a player that had emerged on United and Inter Milan’s radar. Sara caught the eye in his debut season in Turkey, notching two goals and 10 assists in 45 games across all competitions.
Capable across the midfield, Sara excels in a box-to-box role and could inject much-needed energy into Ruben Amorim’s setup.
The report added that Galatasaray would be willing to do business at the €30m mark. They paid €18m to lure him from Norwich City last summer.
However, according to journalist Kutlu Akpınar, Galatasaray want to keep the Brazilian as Okan Buruk and club executives are admirers of his. Akpınar notes that Leeds United and Aston Villa have also been looking at Sara.
“One of the teams following Gabriel Sara, apart from Aston Villa, is Leeds United.”
“There is no change in the process. Okan Hoca and the management are very happy. He will remain in the squad.”
With Galatasaray unwilling to sell, United must either redirect their interest or work to convince the Turkish side to sanction a deal for Sara.
Featured image Ahmad Mora via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
