Galatasaray Signs Deniz Gul from Porto in Deadline Deal
Galatasaray pushed their summer rebuild right to the edge of the window – and got their man. Turkish international striker Deniz Gul has completed a move from FC Porto to the reigning Super Lig champions in a deal worth 10 million euros, sealed just before the transfer deadline.
The 22-year-old arrived in Istanbul on 1 September 2026 by private jet, touching down at Ataturk Airport to a noisy reception from club officials and a throng of supporters. Gul stepped off the plane, joined in a classic Galatasaray chant with the waiting fans, then disappeared into the night for his medical and final checks.
Big fee, long commitment
Galatasaray confirmed the transfer to the Public Disclosure Platform (KAP), announcing a 10 million euro agreement with Porto that also hands the Portuguese club a 10% share of any future profit from a resale.
Gul has signed a five-year contract starting from the 2026-27 season and will earn a guaranteed net salary of 1.5 million euros per year during his stay in Istanbul. It is a long-term bet on a forward the club believes can grow into a leading figure at RAMS Park.
“I’m very happy. I’m very excited,” Gul said after landing. “I want to meet the team and our fans as soon as possible. The important thing for me right now is to be here. I’m here now and I’m focused on this.”
From Stockholm streets to Istanbul spotlight
Born and raised in Stockholm to a Turkish father and Swedish mother, Gul came through Swedish youth systems before making his name at Hammarby IF. His scoring form there convinced Porto to move in August 2024, tying him down on a contract that ran until 2029.
Two years on, his path leads to Istanbul. Galatasaray gain a young striker already hardened by top-level European competition in Portugal, but still with room to develop.
His international story is just as layered. Gul represented Sweden at Under-19 level before switching allegiance to Turkey in November 2024. That decision quickly brought reward: a senior call-up from national team manager Vincenzo Montella for UEFA Nations League fixtures in March 2025.
Now, at 22, he returns to Turkish football not as a prospect on the fringes, but as a full international expected to add power, movement and presence to Galatasaray’s front line.
Immediate impact expected
After completing his medical and signing the paperwork, Gul is set to join first-team training without delay. The coaching staff want him integrated quickly as they prepare to defend their league title and tackle another demanding European campaign.
His arrival strengthens the forward rotation, giving Galatasaray a different profile in attack and crucial depth across a long season. The club have paid for potential, but they also need production now.
The next step is clear. Gul must earn his debut, force his way into the starting picture and prove that this late-window gamble can become one of the defining signings of Galatasaray’s 2026-27 campaign.
