Henry Onyekuru has confirmed that Galatasaray are interested in keeping the winger at the Turk Telekom Arena for next season, as quoted by africanfootball.com.
The Nigerian forward has enjoyed a profitable loan spell away from Goodison Park this season under the leadership of Faith Terim, and has become one of Aslanlar’s most important attacking options thanks to his 13 goals and three assists in the Super Lig.
Decisive goals against Istanbul rivals Besiktas and Fenerbahce in recent weeks were said to have made it ever-more clear to Terim that his side must do all they can to keep Onyekuru on loan for another season – at least.
Galatasaray representatives have also been claimed to have put forward a proposal to Everton that would see Onyekuru remain at the Turk Telekom Arena next term, if he fails for a third year to obtain a UK work permit.
The suggested deal would also see Onyekuru double his wage from €1.3million-a-year to €2.6m (£1.1m to £2.2m), and came at the same time their Super Lig and city rival Besiktas were tipped to be in discussions with the Toffees to sign the £9million-rated forward on a two-season loan.
While Onyekuru has not confirmed the interest in his services from Besiktas, he has stated that Galatasaray’s offer is true. For now, though, the 9-cap international is intent on finishing the Super Lig season strongly, before sitting down with Marcel Brands and Marco Silva to see where his Goodison future lies.
“Yes, I can’t discuss anything [regarding a contract], [as] for now, I am still a player of Everton,” he said. “I want to stay focused to finish the season on a good note, before sitting on a round table with Everton and my agent to discuss where my future lies.
“It is true, Galatasaray wants me to stay back, [but] that decision rests on my agent. Mine is to play football, while my agent is to take decisions regarding the positive move for me in my career, as for now, I remain a player of Everton.
“For now, I am enjoying my stay in Galatasaray, the fans have been so supportive in large numbers, top-notch players and not forgetting quality administrators in the club.
“For now, let’s see how it pans out at the end of the day.”