Russian Journalist Reveals Batrakov Wants Galatasaray Move as Lokomotiv Demand €30m
Championat journalist Andrey Pankov reports that Galatasaray have offered €20m for Alexey Batrakov, while Lokomotiv want €30m plus bonuses.
Russian Journalist Reveals Batrakov Transfer Details
Fresh details have emerged from Russia regarding Alexey Batrakov’s potential move to Galatasaray.
According to Championat journalist Andrey Pankov, Galatasaray submitted their first official offer for the midfielder on 8 August, worth €20 million.
Lokomotiv have not yet accepted the proposal.
Pankov reports that Lokomotiv CEO Boris Rotenberg is demanding €30 million plus bonuses for the 20-year-old.
Batrakov Wants the Galatasaray Move
One of the most important details concerns the player’s own position.
Pankov reports that Batrakov has personally asked Boris Rotenberg to allow him to join Galatasaray.
His representative, Vladimir Kuzmichev, also confirmed that Galatasaray sent Lokomotiv a letter expressing their intention to begin negotiations.
Kuzmichev said Batrakov is interested in the opportunity and wants to consider the move, although personal terms cannot currently be discussed without Lokomotiv’s permission.
€20m Release Clause Does Not Apply to Turkey
Batrakov has a €20 million release clause, but according to his representative, that clause does not apply to Turkey.
Galatasaray therefore cannot simply activate the clause and complete the transfer.
They must reach a direct agreement with Lokomotiv over the fee.
Lokomotiv Publicly Deny Talks
Lokomotiv told Championat that they are currently not negotiating with Galatasaray or any other club and are not considering the departure of Batrakov.
However, Pankov’s sources claim that communication between the clubs is still continuing.
Galatasaray would need to improve their current €20 million offer for the deal to move forward.
Why the PSG Move Collapsed
The report also details previous interest from PSG.
The French club were seriously interested in Batrakov and held talks before his €20 million release clause became active on 1 July.
Lokomotiv wanted to secure a higher fee, and the parties ultimately failed to reach an agreement.
PSG did not return for the player after 1 July.
Galatasaray Need to Raise Their Offer
The situation is currently described as something of a stalemate, but the transfer is not considered closed.
Galatasaray have offered €20 million, while Lokomotiv are holding out for €30 million plus bonuses.
Batrakov’s willingness to move to Istanbul is an important factor, but the next step depends on whether Galatasaray improve their proposal and whether Lokomotiv soften their valuation.
Source: Championat — Andrey Pankov
