Fenerbahçe in Frenetic Transfer Window Amid European Exit
ISTANBUL, January 29, 2026 – Turkish Süper Lig giants Fenerbahçe are navigating a busy conclusion to the January transfer window, targeting multiple high-profile signings while managing departures. The club’s activity comes in the wake of their elimination from the UEFA Europa League last week.
Aggressive Pursuit of New Talent
According to multiple reports from French and Turkish media, Fenerbahçe’s recruitment team has been highly active in recent days. The club is reportedly competing with Crystal Palace for the signature of SCO Angers’ 19-year-old midfielder, Sidiki Chérif. In a more ambitious move, the Istanbul side has lodged a €4 million offer with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad for experienced French midfielder N’Golo Kanté.
Further attacking reinforcements are also being sought. The club is preparing an offer for Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee and has submitted a new bid for Corinthians striker Yuri Alberto, though it is understood to be below an earlier €22 million offer from Lazio. Fenerbahçe has also registered interest in Atalanta’s Nigerian forward, Ademola Lookman.
Confirmed Departure and Interest in Key Striker
Amid the incoming links, the club has confirmed a significant sale. Attacking midfielder Sebastian Szymanski has completed a €10 million transfer to French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais. Conversely, the club faces the potential departure of star striker Youssef En-Nesyri, with Italian Serie A powerhouse Juventus reportedly closing in on a deal for the Moroccan international.
Europa League Exit and Upcoming Fixture
On the pitch, Fenerbahçe’s European campaign ended last Thursday with a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa in the Europa League. Jadon Sancho’s first goal for the Premier League club sealed the victory, sending Villa through to the round of 16.
Attention now turns to the domestic schedule, with Fenerbahçe set to face Romanian side FC FCSB in a friendly today, January 29. The match is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 EST / 20:00 GMT.
Key Facts & Figures
| Player / Event | Status / Detail |
|---|---|
| Sidiki Chérif (Angers) | Transfer target; facing competition from Crystal Palace. |
| N’Golo Kanté (Al-Ittihad) | €4 million offer submitted by Fenerbahçe. |
| Sebastian Szymanski | Confirmed sale to Rennes for €10 million. |
| Youssef En-Nesyri | Subject of strong interest and advanced talks with Juventus. |
| Last Europa League Match | Lost 1-0 to Aston Villa (Jan 22, 2026). |
| Next Match | vs. FC FCSB (Friendly) – Jan 29, 2026, 15:00 EST. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Fenerbahçe get knocked out of Europe?
Yes. Fenerbahçe was eliminated from the 2025-26 UEFA Europa League following a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa on January 22, 2026.
Who is Fenerbahçe’s most notable transfer target?
The most surprising target is veteran French World Cup winner N’Golo Kanté, currently with Al-Ittihad, for whom the club has made a formal €4 million offer.
Has Fenerbahçe sold any players recently?
Yes. Polish attacking midfielder Sebastian Szymanski was sold to Ligue 1’s Stade Rennais for a reported fee of €10 million.