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Galatasaray increases record-breaking offer for Lyon’s Georges Mikautadze

Georges Mikautadze Georges Mikautadze in action during Olympic Lyon's match against Angers in Angers, France, December 8, 2024. (Photo via Instagram / @georgesmkd)
By Selin Hacialioglu
Jan 8, 2025 10:33 AM

Galatasaray is pushing hard to finalize the transfer of Georges Mikautadze, who currently plays for Olympique Lyon, before the January transfer window officially opens on January 13.

The 24-year-old forward is a key target for the Istanbul-based club, which is determined to strengthen its squad with this high-profile signing.

Georges Mikautadze
Georges Mikautadze in action during Olympic Lyon’s match against Angers in Angers, France, December 8, 2024. (Photo via Instagram / @georgesmkd)

Galatasaray updates its offer to $26 million for Georges Mikautadze

After Galatasaray’s $22 million offer was rejected by Lyon, the club returned with an improved bid to secure Mikautadze.

According to reports, the new offer includes:

  • $23 million guaranteed
  • An additional $3 million tied to performance-based bonuses, totaling $26 million.

Lyon initially showed interest in a $26 million deal but later increased their asking price to $31 million due to growing attention from other clubs.

Head coach Okan Buruk and Sportif Vice President Abdullah Kavukcu recently met to refine the club’s transfer plans. Sources reveal that the duo prioritized Georges Mikautadze as a crucial addition to Galatasaray’s attack.

Speaking after Galatasaray’s recent controversial match against Goztepe, Buruk emphasized his need for a versatile forward, signaling the importance of the transfer.

Georgia's Georges Mikautadze
Georgia’s Georges Mikautadze celebrates scoring their second goal, June 2024. (AFP Photo)

Georges Mikautadze’s performance, Lyon’s expectations

Lyon signed Mikautadze earlier this season for $19 million. Since then, the forward has made 22 appearances, scoring 7 goals and providing 1 assist. His performances have caught the attention of Galatasaray, which sees him as a vital part of its domestic and European ambitions.

Reports suggest that Lyon remains firm in its valuation of Mikautadze. However, Galatasaray’s willingness to push its financial limits indicates how highly they value the Georgian international.

Galatasaray increases record-breaking offer for Lyon's Georges Mikautadze
Mert Muldur (18) of Türkiye in action against Georges Mikautadze (22) of Georgia during the Euro 2024 Group F football match between Türkiye and Georgia at BVB Stadion Dortmund in Dortmund, Germany on June 18, 2024. (AA Photo)

Transfer strategy includes other key players alongside Mikautadze

Galatasaray is not limiting its ambitions to Georges Mikautadze. Negotiations are ongoing for Milan Skriniar, a highly regarded defender. The club has reportedly agreed to cover $3 million of Skriniar’s salary for the remainder of the season, aiming to secure his services in addition to the forward.

This aggressive approach shows Galatasaray’s determination to bolster its squad and remain competitive in both the league and UEFA tournaments. Mikautadze’s addition would likely result in changes to the UEFA squad list, signaling the club’s readiness to make adjustments for the forward’s integration.

Fans await Lyon’s response as the transfer window approaches

Galatasaray is eager to finalize Georges Mikautadze’s transfer swiftly, aiming to avoid drawn-out negotiations. Lyon’s decision is expected to set the tone for the remainder of the winter transfer window. Fans are closely following developments, hoping to see the forward in the iconic yellow-and-red jersey soon.

With the transfer deadline looming, Galatasaray’s focus remains clear: securing top-tier talent to strengthen its squad and maintain its competitive edge across all fronts.

Last Updated:  Jan 8, 2025 10:33 AM