ISTANBUL, Turkey (AP) — Spanish striker Alvaro Morata has officially joined Turkish giants Galatasaray on loan from AC Milan, with an option to make the move permanent, both clubs confirmed on Sunday night.
Under the terms of the agreement, Galatasaray will pay Milan €6 million ($6.1 million) for the loan deal, which extends until January 20, 2026.
If the Istanbul-based club opts to make the transfer permanent, they will need to pay an additional €8 million to secure Morata’s services. The Spanish forward is set to earn €6 million per season if the purchase clause is activated.
A Well-Traveled Career Continues
Morata, 31, brings a wealth of experience to Galatasaray, having played for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea, Juventus, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid.
The Spanish international moved to AC Milan last summer but struggled to make a significant impact, scoring just six goals and providing two assists in 25 appearances across all competitions.
Despite his mixed performances at Milan, Morata remains a valuable asset due to his technical ability, aerial presence, and knack for scoring crucial goals.
Galatasaray, currently leading the Turkish Süper Lig, will be hoping the seasoned striker can bolster their attack as they continue their domestic and European campaigns.
Replacing Morata: Milan Signs Gimenez
With Morata departing, AC Milan wasted no time in securing his replacement. The Italian club announced the signing of Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord.
Gimenez, 23, has been a standout performer in the Eredivisie, scoring consistently for Feyenoord over the past two seasons.
Milan confirmed that Gimenez has signed a long-term contract until June 30, 2029, signaling their commitment to building their attack around the young forward.
Galatasaray Strengthens Ahead of Title Push
For Galatasaray, Morata’s arrival adds further firepower to a squad that already features the likes of Mauro Icardi and Dries Mertens.
The Turkish side, managed by Okan Buruk, is aiming to defend their Süper Lig title and make a deep run in European competitions.
The move also reunites Morata with his former Juventus teammate Angel Di Maria, who joined Galatasaray earlier this summer.
The Spanish forward will be expected to contribute immediately as the club looks to maintain its dominance in Turkish football.
What’s Next for Morata?
While Morata has struggled for consistency in recent years, a move to Turkey could provide him with the perfect opportunity to rediscover his best form.
With regular playing time and a passionate fanbase behind him, he will look to make a strong impression in the Süper Lig and potentially earn a recall to the Spanish national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As the football season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Galatasaray decides to trigger the purchase option, making Morata’s stay in Istanbul a permanent one.