According to a report from Rudy Galetti, Galatasaray are working hard to finalise a deal to sign Cedric from Arsenal. The Istanbul giants are keen to secure a new right-back after Sasha Boe's departure and are willing to offer the 32-year-old versatile defender a two-and-a-half-year contract.
Cedric will join Galatasaray?
Arsenal have opted to remain inactive in this transfer window; Although Mikael Arteta's comments suggest they are interested in some of the players, the current market conditions allow them to have too much room to play. In any case, the Gunners head coach may now want to keep the majority of his current first-team squad at the club, but probably not Cedric.
Arsenal have been hungry for Cedric since the beginning of the month. There have been many rumours linking the 32-year-old versatile defender with a transfer, considering that he is entering the final six months of his contract. Besiktas had been in talks with the Gunners and looked close to signing him at one stage.
Reports say Cedric has agreed personal terms with Besiktas, but Arsenal's insistence on a fee could put them off. Galatasaray are keen to sign the 32-year-old versatile defender and are reportedly working hard to finalise a deal for the right-back.
Turkey's transfer window closes on 9 February, giving Arsenal and Galatasaray plenty of time to get a deal done. The Gunners are still expecting a decent transfer fee, which could work in their favour. Galatasaray are reportedly willing to offer Cedric a two-and-a-half-year contract, while the defender is likely to be happy to accept.
Galatasaray considering Cedric as replacement for Sasha Boe?
Sasha Boe's high-profile move to Bayern Munich just days ago has led Galatasaray to step up their search for a replacement. They are hoping that Cedric will fill the Frenchman's place, and the deal could be beneficial to Galatasaray for a long time.
Cedric's low cost could appeal to the Turkish giants, especially after Boe's transfer. They still have plenty of time to reach a deal with Arsenal, although they are aware of Besiktas's interest, which could accelerate their pursuit.