TEAMtalk reported that Arsenal and Liverpool have joined the race for Galatasaray attacker Aleksey Batrakov. The 21-year-old is also the subject of interest from other Premier League clubs.
Scouts watch on Wednesday
According to TEAMtalk sources, Arsenal and Liverpool have joined the race for Batrakov. TEAMtalk reported that representatives from both clubs were in northern France on Wednesday to watch him in action. Batrakov scored in a 4-2 victory on Wednesday.
Other Premier League interest
TEAMtalk reported that Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City are also admirers of Batrakov.
Galatasaray deal and clause
Galatasaray agreed a €25million deal with Lokomotiv Moscow to sign Batrakov. Since arriving at Galatasaray, he has registered two goals and two assists from six starts. TEAMtalk sources reported that his Galatasaray deal includes a release clause allowing him to leave for England, Italy, Spain or Germany for a predetermined fee. TEAMtalk sources said the clause is believed to be worth around £50million. TEAMtalk reported that Galatasaray are delighted with Batrakov so far and have no current appetite to sell him.
Restriction on direct move
UK government sanctions linked to the war in Ukraine restrict direct transfer business involving Russian clubs, making a direct move from Moscow impossible for Premier League clubs, according to TEAMtalk.