Galatasaray, one of Türkiye’s most successful football clubs, is preparing for a significant transformation in its defensive lineup. As the 2025-2026 season approaches, the Istanbul-based team is receiving multiple international transfer offers for key defenders Carlos Cuesta, Victor Nelsson, and Derrick Köhn. These developments suggest a busy transfer period for the club as it aims to both sell and restructure its backline.
Carlos Cuesta Attracts Offers from Russia and Brazil
Colombian center-back Carlos Cuesta is currently considering proposals from two international clubs. According to sources close to the negotiations, Spartak Moscow from Russia and Vasco da Gama from Brazil have officially submitted transfer offers.
The 24-year-old defender has been a reliable figure for Galatasaray since his arrival and remains under contract. However, the club is open to a potential transfer if the financial terms meet their valuation. Cuesta’s versatility and physical strength have made him an attractive target for clubs seeking defensive reinforcements. Discussions are ongoing, and a decision is expected soon.
Victor Nelsson Set for Serie A Loan Spell
Another major shift is happening with Danish defender Victor Nelsson, who is reportedly set to join Hellas Verona on a loan deal. The Serie A club has reached an agreement with Galatasaray to bring Nelsson in on a one-year temporary transfer.
This move is seen as a strategic decision. By allowing Nelsson to gain consistent playing time in a competitive European league, Galatasaray aims to increase the player’s market value ahead of next summer. Verona sees the 26-year-old as a solid addition to strengthen its central defense, especially with his previous experience in European competitions.
Nelsson’s exit, even if temporary, creates a gap in Galatasaray’s central defense, adding urgency to the club’s plans to bring in a replacement before the transfer window closes.
Derrick Köhn Nearing Bundesliga Return
German left-back Derrick Köhn is also on the verge of departure, with multiple Bundesliga clubs expressing serious interest in signing him. Among the suitors, Union Berlin and Werder Bremen emerged as leading contenders.
After evaluating both offers, Galatasaray has reportedly accepted Union Berlin’s proposal, which meets the club’s financial and sporting expectations. The transfer is in its final stages, and the official signing is expected to be completed shortly.
For Köhn, a return to his home country’s top league marks a step forward in his career, and the Bundesliga will provide a familiar environment for the 25-year-old to continue developing his game.
What This Means for Galatasaray’s Defensive Strategy
The simultaneous departure of three important defenders signals a transitional period for Galatasaray’s backline. While fans may be concerned about the sudden exodus, insiders suggest that the club has already been scouting potential replacements and is ready to reinvest the transfer income into the squad.
Head coach Okan Buruk is reportedly involved in identifying profiles that align with the team’s tactical setup. The club is looking for defenders who are not only physically dominant but also comfortable in possession, in line with the modern demands of Turkish and European football.
Reactions from Fans and Experts
Galatasaray supporters have reacted with mixed feelings. While some believe it’s a good time to refresh the squad and capitalize on player value, others are concerned about maintaining defensive stability during UEFA competitions and the Süper Lig title race.
Football analysts suggest that this could be a calculated move by the club’s board, aiming to balance financial sustainability with long-term sporting success. Selling players at their peak value and replacing them with younger, promising talents is a strategy used by many European clubs to stay competitive.
Galatasaray’s Broader Transfer Plans
These defensive exits may just be the beginning. Galatasaray is expected to be active in both incoming and outgoing transfers before the window closes. Several names have already been linked to the club, including defenders from Ligue 1 and La Liga, though no official deals have been announced yet.
The club is also reportedly focusing on strengthening its midfield and attack in anticipation of a demanding season that includes European commitments. The objective is clear: to build a deeper, more versatile squad capable of competing on all fronts.
