Stoke City could inadvertently trigger a process that leads to Marouane Fellaini leaving Manchester United.

The Potters are close to completing the transfer of Galatasaray midfielder Badou Ndiaye.

A source close to Galatasaray informed Turkish-Football that the Senegal international handed in his transfer request.

Ndiaye was dropped from the matchday squad ahead of the Osmanlispor clash and was spotted leaving the Florya training grounds at midnight.

See More: Man United transfer news: Turkish giants enter talks with Fellaini’s representatives but Mourinho could block move again

Galatasaray released a statement confirming that offers have been received for the midfielder.

The club released the following official statement: “Badou Ndiaye has received offers from clubs overseas. Badou has been removed from the squad set to face Osmanlispor as he is currently distracted from him on field duties by the transfer talks.”

The Potters are not the only club interested in Ndiaye.

The Daily Mail have reported that Newcastle United, Watford and Crystal Palace are also interested in the 27-year-old.

Futbolarena claim the sale of Ndiaye would free up wages and put Galatasaray in a financial position to strike a deal with Fellaini.

Per the source, the Lions are planning to replace Ndiaye with Fellaini if the transfer goes ahead.

The Istanbul giants have been trying to sign the Belgium international since the summer transfer window.

The report claims Galatasaray boss Fatih Terim is on good terms with United manager Jose Mourinho and that it could improve chances of a deal happening.

Mourinho did however, block Fellaini’s transfer to the Lions over the summer.

“It’s easier for Galatasaray to get me than to get Maroaune,” Mourinho was quoted as saying by Goal.

“Forget it. He’s too important to me.”