Sources close to Galatasaray denied rumors linking the club with Juventus player Koopmeiners. It was subsequently revealed that the club's actual target at Juventus is 28-year-old defensive midfielder Manuel Locatelli. An Italian National Team player, Locatelli has 34 caps and 3 goals for his country and is the captain at his club. His market value is 25 million Euros.
Locatelli joined Juventus in July 2023, with his contract valid until June 2028, and has made 19 appearances in Serie A during the 2025/2026 season. Olympique Marseille has also been linked with the player. In September and October 2025, Juventus's asking price was reportedly between €30 million and €40 million. His permanent transfer from Sassuolo was completed for a fee of €30 million.
