Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly on the verge of completing a record-breaking deal to sign Fenerbahçe defender Ferdi Kadıoğlu, according to multiple sources in the Turkish media.
The Turkey international has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League in recent weeks, with Brighton leading the chase. However, negotiations appeared to have stalled, leaving some doubt over whether the deal would go through.
Ajanspor, as relayed by Abc Gazetesi, now reports that Fenerbahçe have finally accepted Brighton’s €35.2 million offer for the versatile left-back.
If completed, the transfer would set a new record for the most expensive player sold from the Turkish Super Lig, surpassing the current record of €30 million.
Brighton’s determination to sign Kadıoğlu has been evident throughout the prolonged talks with Fenerbahçe, and it seemed increasingly likely that the English club would have to break the Super Lig’s transfer record to secure the defender’s services.
Recent reports also suggested that Kadıoğlu had already agreed personal terms with the Seagulls, with the main stumbling block being the transfer fee.
The 24-year-old has reportedly been eager to move to the Premier League, and while Brighton has led the race for his signature, Manchester United had also shown interest in the player.
Meanwhile, Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho is already planning for life without Kadıoğlu. Turkish media reports indicate that Mourinho is keen to bring in a left-footed centre-back to replace the departing defender.
Jayden Oosterwolde is reportedly being considered for the left-back role, but Mourinho is also eyeing additional reinforcements in central defence.
Mourinho is said to be dissatisfied with his current options, particularly Rodrigo Becão and Alexander Djiku, and is reportedly interested in Fulham’s Calvin Bassey.
The 24-year-old Italian-born Nigerian centre-back is valued at €16 million and is known for his speed and physicality. Bassey, who joined Fulham from Ajax for €22 million in July 2023, made 30 Premier League appearances last season and could fit the profile Mourinho is seeking.