Ugurcan Cakir’s agent admits there is Premier League interest in the Trabzonspor captain with Leeds United and Newcastle reportedly keen, speaking to Fanatik.
It’s usually worth taking reports linking Cakir with a move to England with a pinch of salt large enough to season a months’ supply of McDonald’s fries. Then again, as the old saying goes, ‘there’s no smoke without fire’.
Fanatik claimed in March that Leeds had made contact with the Turkey international regarding a potential £17 million move to Elland Road. Newcastle are planning a bid of their own.
And while Leeds would surely firm up their interest only if Illan Meslier departs, it is no secret that Newcastle are scouring the market for a new number one.
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“(Clubs in) Spain and England are among those who are interested in Ugurcan,” says Necdet Cakir, the goalkeeper’s agent and brother. “The Premier League would be nice.
“The English Premier League is the most prestigious league in the world. It is the dream of all football players to play there. It would be nice if there was a Premier League (club who sign him).
“If not, other leagues are not leagues to be ignored.”
Leeds United or Newcastle?
Necdet Cakir spoke about reports linking Leeds with the Trabzonspor skipper earlier this week, admitting that Jesse Marsch’s side have not yet made a bid for his sibling and client.
That could change, however, if Meslier expresses a desire for a new challenge on the back of a season in which he’s performed like a scene straight out of Shaolin Soccer; Repelling shot after shot as the defence in front of him disappears into the ether.
As things stand, however, there is nothing to suggest that Meslier will not still be at Elland Road when 2022/23 kicks off.
“I think Ugurcan is the most talented among the goalkeepers I have worked with so far. He has incredible talents,” says Erce Kardesler, the second-choice shot-stopper at a Trabzonspor side cruising 13 points clear at the top of the Super Lig and closing in on their first domestic title since the 1980s (Sabah).
“I see him with the naked eye every day. I think this is the tip of the iceberg for Ugurcan. Maybe it’s surprising for people that he’s this good. But, for me, I’m not surprised in any way.”
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