German Defensive Fortresses: Galatasaray Targets Rudiger and Goretzka Amid Real Madrid Uncertainty
12 December 2025
Rudiger on Real Madrid contract stalemate fuels Galatasaray interest
Rudiger's Real Madrid contract renewal remains unsettled, sparking fresh transfer chatter about the German defender's future.
Turkish outlets report that Galatasaray have placed Rudiger at the top of their winter transfer priorities to strengthen their defense in 2026.
According to the Turkish newspaper Fanatik, the 32-year-old’s experience has caught the eye of Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk, who sees him as a natural leader at the back.
Rudiger has not extended his deal and is reportedly open to listening to offers, prompting Galatasaray to explore negotiations before presenting a formal Madrid proposal.
Buruk believes signing Rudiger would mark a qualitative leap in defense, potentially pairing him with Davinson Sanchez in Europe and benefiting Abdulkadir Bardakci’s depth for the squad.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray has renewed interest in Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka, who is also set to become a free agent in the summer.
If the moves for both players materialize, Galatasaray would field a strong German spine alongside Leroy Sane, strengthening their domestic and continental ambitions.
