Galatasaray Eyeing Borussia Dortmund’s Ramy Bensebaini Transfer | Winter Window 2024

Istanbul – Galatasaray, one of Turkey’s leading football clubs, is in discussions to sign Algerian defender Ramy Bensebaini from Borussia Dortmund during the current winter transfer window, which closes on Friday, June 6. The move aims to bolster Galatasaray’s squad as they pursue the league championship.

According to reports, Galatasaray has initiated talks with Dortmund regarding the 30-year-old centre-back, who is capable of playing both as a central defender and a left-back. The Istanbul-based club is hoping to secure the services of the Algerian international.

Bensebaini joined Borussia Dortmund in July 2023, and his contract with the German club is valid until June 2027. He has made 20 appearances across all competitions for Dortmund, scoring three goals and providing one assist. In the current Bundesliga season, he has featured in one match and recorded three assists. Transfermarkt currently estimates his market value at €7.00 million.

The Algerian international has extensive experience, having earned 79 caps for his national team, scoring 7 goals. His profile, as a proven player capable of handling both domestic and continental demands, aligns with Galatasaray’s desire for depth and reliability in defence.

Galatasaray’s pursuit of Bensebaini comes as the club seeks reinforcements during the mid-season transfer window, based on a list compiled by coach Okan Buruk. The club appears to be in a strong financial position to meet the conditions required to complete the deal, potentially including the payment of a release clause.

Prior to joining Dortmund, Bensebaini played for Lierse SK in Belgium, and then spent time with SC Montpellier and Stade Rennes in France. While at Rennes, he was a key figure in their 2019 Coupe de France victory, even scoring in the penalty shoot-out against Paris Saint-Germain. He moved to Germany in June 2023.

Bensebaini’s early life was spent in Constantine, Algeria, the country’s third-largest city. At the age of 12, he joined the Academy of Paradou AC in Algiers, where training methods included barefoot drills and sessions without goalkeepers, emphasizing ball control.

The defender is known for his strong tackling ability, winning approximately 62 percent of his duels in the 2023/24 season and 59 percent in the following season. He is also described as technically skilled, particularly in receiving and controlling high balls. While not a traditional wing-back, he strategically joins attacks and links up effectively with teammates.

Financially, Bensebaini currently earns an annual salary of €4.5 million, equivalent to approximately 2.925 billion FCFA. Any potential transfer would represent a significant financial investment for Galatasaray.

In the 2024/25 season, Bensebaini was involved in ten goals across all competitions, demonstrating his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch. His arrival at Galatasaray would add experience and versatility to their defensive options as they continue their campaign for the league title.