West Bromwich Albion star Okay Yokuşlu is reportedly at the heart of a Turkish transfer tug-of-war between Beşiktaş and Trabzonspor.
The defensive midfielder looks set to leave The Hawthorns this summer after an impressive season in the Championship in which he missed just two matches. West Brom would’ve found it very difficult to achieve the top-six finish they did if it wasn’t for Yokuşlu’s efforts at the base of midfield.
It was reported last week that Beşiktaş had scheduled talks with Albion to discuss Yokuşlu and the situation appears to have progressed. But it’s not going to be easy for Beşiktaş to seal the deal as Sports Digitale reports fellow Turkish club Trabzonspor have entered the fight.
It’s claimed official negotiations are well underway with Yokuşlu’s representatives as Trabzonspor, one of the player’s former clubs, attempt a sensational hijack. Beşiktaş will have to act quickly to respond in what has become quite the transfer tug-of-war.
West Brom’s asking price has been speculated to be around the £5 million mark and the Baggies are unlikely to get in Yokuşlu’s way as the Turk only has 12 months left on his contract. This is the last opportunity to acquire a decent transfer fee, especially as a bidding war could commence.
Yokuşlu not the only Albion star wanted in Turkey
Cédric Kipré is another Baggie widely reported to be of interest to a Turkish club as Trabzonspor are said to have held talks. The Ivorian was one of West Brom’s star players last season but is yet to agree terms on a new contract.
Officially, Kipré is a free agent as it stands as his Albion deal expired on June 30. Any potential suitors are allowed to speak to the player directly without West Brom’s permission. It awaits to be seen if there’s any chance of the central defender staying at The Hawthorns.
