Kerem Akturkoglu is set to join Fenerbahçe, having agreed to terms with the Istanbul club. Nevertheless, Galatasaray, his former team, retains a decisive role that might impact the completion of the transfer. Galatasaray had transferred Akturkoglu to Benfica a year prior for €12 million, while securing a right of first refusal. Benfica has notified Galatasaray about the terms, as per this right. The deal is valued at €22.5 million, with the potential to increase to €25 million depending on certain objectives outlined in the contract, and is subject to Galatasaray's approval. Galatasaray has a five-day window to exercise this right, which could hinder Akturkoglu's registration in the Europa League if there are delays, with a deadline set for September 2.

There is ongoing speculation regarding a potential swap deal between Benfica and Galatasaray that could involve Zaniolo and the 26-year-old Turkish international winger Kerem Aktürkoğlu. Galatasaray's manager, Okan Buruk, has reportedly indicated that the club is always open to players like Kerem, which might be influencing Kerem's decision-making process. Buruk is said to have referred to Kerem and Boey as valuable assets to the team, emphasizing their importance by describing them as akin to 'our own children.' This welcoming attitude is seen as a significant factor in Kerem's consideration of a return to Galatasaray. Additionally, while the future of Kerem at Benfica remains uncertain, his recent performance, marked by 16 goals and 10 assists in 49 appearances, highlights his value in any potential transfer discussions. Aktürkoğlu's contract with Benfica is valid until June 2029, and his current market value is estimated at €24.00m by Transfermarkt. He has also been associated with potential interest from other clubs, including Fenerbahçe and Beşiktaş.