Galatasaray is very close to finalizing a deal to capture AS Roma player Nicolo Zaniolo
The Italian international had negotiations with Tottenham in January, but reports indicate that Galatasaray is very close to finalizing a deal to capture AS Roma player Nicolo Zaniolo.
Tottenham is likely to miss out on the Serie A superstar after coming close to a deal last month during the winter window, as reported by writer Alfredo Pedulla, who claims that the 23-year-old will soon be revealed and introduced as a new Gala player.
According to Rudy Galetti, Tottenham and Zaniolo settled on amicable terms. As Spurs pushed for a deal to bring in Pedro Porro and Arsenal signed Arnaut Danjuma, it became clear that time was running out for the north London club to get the Italian to England.
Since then, Galatasaray has rushed in and signed Zaniolo, a move that has surprised many considering how excellent the Roma star is compared to the general level of the Turkish Super Lig.
Even though Galatasaray are dominating their league and on track to qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season, few would have guessed that Zaniolo would join the Istanbul-based giants. Tottenham, in particular, was convinced that they could bring the 23-year-old to London in January.
Zaniolo was keen to leave Italy, and Roma needed the money, so it makes sense that he has signed with Galatasaray. The forward can now put his whole attention on his game and perhaps return to his former form.
To suggest that Galatasaray made a shrewd move in signing Zaniolo would be somewhat of an understatement, given that the Italian international had previously been linked to a move to Tottenham of the Premier League. In addition, the change itself may be the beginning of something fantastic. Now that the Italian media has stopped obsessing over Zaniolo, he can go back to doing what he does best—winning over fans with his play on the football field. Joining a team of Galatasaray’s stature may be just what the striker needs to rediscover his former greatness.