Newcastle United sporting director Paul Mitchell has reportedly flown to Istanbul to watch the Turkish Super Cup final between Galatasaray and Besiktas according to Fotospor.
Per the source, he could make the Lions a formal offer after the game for Yilmaz.
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The report claims that Mitchell is a long term admirer of Yilmaz and that he is familiar with Turkish football after almost taking charge at Fenerbahce and Besiktas as sporting director after leaving Monaco.
The trip is believed to be part of the Magpies’ ongoing pursuit of Galatasaray winger Baris Alper Yilmaz, who has emerged as a top target for the Premier League side.
The 24-year-old has been in impressive form for Galatasaray, attracting interest from several clubs across Europe. Newcastle have been long-term admirers of the versatile attacker, with Mitchell having previously expressed his admiration for Yilmaz’s talent.
With a potential £30 million transfer fee being discussed, Mitchell’s presence in Istanbul highlights the club’s determination to secure the signing of the Turkish winger.
The Super Cup final provides an ideal opportunity for Mitchell to assess Yilmaz’s abilities firsthand as Newcastle look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.