Galatasaray officialize Batrakov transfer: Russian star arrives in Istanbul

Galatasaray have completed their second major reinforcement of a quiet transfer window, following Lesley Ugochukwu. For young Lokomotiv Moscow midfielder Aleksey Batrakov, whom they had been negotiating with for a long time, the yellow-red club's management agreed with the Russian club on a transfer fee of 25 million euros.

According to the club's statement to the Public Disclosure Platform (KAP), the 21-year-old player will sign a 5-year contract and Batrakov will earn an annual net salary of 3.25 million euros. Another notable detail in the agreement is that Lokomotiv Moscow will receive a 15 percent share from any potential future sale. According to reports in the Russian press, a release clause of 55 million euros was also added to the contract.

Batrakov, who was welcomed by numerous fans upon his arrival in Istanbul, is expected to sign after completing his medical examinations. In his first statement, the young footballer emphasized that he had wanted to transfer to Galatasaray from the very beginning, noting that this would be his first experience abroad and that he was excited. Batrakov, who also praised the fans, said: 'Galatasaray fans are the most passionate fans in Europe, I want to be with them as soon as possible.'

Since Leroy Sane wears the number 10 shirt at the club, Batrakov opted for the number 83, which he had previously worn during his career. The Russian player, who will not be able to play in today's match against Erzurumspor, is expected to be included in the squad for the following week's match against Göztepe. Given that the young footballer started the season in good form in Russia, it is also possible he could get playing time in that match if the coaching staff approves.