A four-way bidding war looming?! Aston Villa, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and West Ham all send scouts to watch Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz as summer plans are drawn up

Aston Villa, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and West Ham have all sent scouts to watch Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz ahead of the summer.

• Galatasaray star emerging as a target
• PL quartet all represented as Gala played Besiktas
• Yilmaz a tricky winger

WHAT HAPPENED?

Per TBR Football, all four Premier League clubs were represented at Galatasaray's clash with Besiktas, which Besiktas won 2-1. According to the report, the primary focus of their scouting mission was Yilmaz, a versatile wideman who can play on either flank or as a striker.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The 24-year-old is a Turkiye international with 26 caps, and he has been in fine form this season, scoring 10 goals and registering three assists in 27 league games. The Premier League sides were also interested in watching Semih Kilicsoy, although the 19-year-old was sent off during the game.

DID YOU KNOW?

Yilmaz is so versatile that he has even played at full-back and in central midfield throughout his career. He has a contract with Gala until 2027, so their resolve may well be tested this summer if any of the four clubs decide to formalise their interest.

WHAT NEXT?

Gala are currently six points clear of Fenerbahce at the top of the Super Lig and will hope to bring home the trophy before considering any potential departures. They face Fener in the quarter-final of the Turkish Cup on Wednesday.