Fenerbahce president reveals reason Turkish club pulled plug on deal to sign Tottenham star Yves Bissouma in summer transfer window

Fenerbahce president Ali Koc has lifted the lid on one of North London's transfer sagas, revealing that the club came agonisingly close to landing Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Yves Bissouma before an untimely injury torpedoed the deal. Giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce were both circling, sensing an opportunity to snap up a proven Premier League talent. Yet despite heavy speculation and weeks of negotiation, no agreement has been reached.

Fenerbahce confirm failed Bissouma pursuit
Spurs midfielder’s injury scuppered Turkish move
Bissouma keen to extend England stay

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WHAT HAPPENED?
Bissouma’s future at Tottenham has been clouded for months. Since Thomas Frank’s arrival as manager, the 29-year-old has slipped down the pecking order, sparking rumours that Spurs were open to offloading him before his contract winds down.

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Several reports suggested Bissouma was torn between chasing a lucrative move to Turkiye and staying in England for another year to secure a British passport, a factor that would make any exit trickier. While some Turkish outlets claimed he was eager to join Fenerbahce, others hinted he was reluctant to leave the Premier League just yet.
WHAT KOC SAID
Speaking to Fener Ajans, Koc cleared the air and admitted Bissouma was the man at the very top of their shopping list.
“We all want a number 8. Bissouma was close, but he got injured,” he said. “We want a smart number 8. She can distribute the ball intelligently and play box-to-box. We’re working on a young player. Transfers at Fenerbahce don’t end until the last minute. Those coming in and out never end. We’ll push the envelope until the last moment.”

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DID YOU KNOW?
Koc’s explanation raises eyebrows, as Bissouma was reported to have shaken off a muscle problem and returned to training on August 30. With the Turkish deadline not closing until September 12, sceptics believe the injury line might be more of a smokescreen than a genuine obstacle. Adding fuel to the fire, a report from Turkey last week alleged that Fenerbahce officials had been handed “a whole sheet of paper” outlining personal concerns and red flags over signing the player.
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WHAT NEXT?
Whatever the truth, it seems Bissouma won’t be boarding a flight to Istanbul before the window shuts. Instead, he has a tricky clash away at West Ham United on September 13 to focus on as Premier League football resumes after the international break.

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WHAT HAPPENED?

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WHAT KOC SAID

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WHAT NEXT?