Arsenal face battle for £17m target who was part of the ‘Class of 92’, 5-year deal offered
Besiktas are desperate to lock down a contract extension with star midfielder Oguzhan Ozyakup.
The Turkish international midfielder will have just 12 months remaining on his contract at the end of the season and has yet to sign a new deal.
The Fanatik newspaper quote Besiktas president Fikret Orman as saying: “I will talk with Oguzhan but right now we have to focus on the title race.
“I don’t want him to get distracted at this critical stage.”
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Per the source, Arsenal are plotting a move to sign back their former youth player.
The Gunners reportedly face competition from Sevilla, Roma and Napoli.
The report claims that 15 clubs scouted Ozyakup in the Istanbul giants recent Europa League quarter-final clash against Lyon.
Besiktas will accept offers matching their €20 [£17] million valuation this summer if they do not agree to a new contract with Ozyakup.
The North London based outfit could also face competition from Manchester United and rivals Tottenham according to the Daily Star.
Ozyakup was part of the Arsenal class of 92 which also featured Jack Wilshere. The former Gunners teammates along with Francis Coquelin won the Youth FA Cup in 2008.
The Turkish international star left Arsenal in 2012 in pursuit of firs team football.
The 24-year-old has established himself as a key player for reigning champions Besiktas.
Ozyakup has 29 goals and 39 assists in 177 appearances for Besiktas in all competitions since joining.
The central midfielder would be able to play in the Premier League without needing a work permit as he was born in the Netherlands and holds EU citizenship.
The Black Eagles are favourites to hold onto the league title this season and are currently first in the Super Lig.
