Transfer news: Why Besiktas’ latest move could change everything for Maduka Okoye

​Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has emerged as a target for Serie A giants Juventus and Turkish side Besiktas, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The Nigerian shot-stopper has seen his stock rise significantly over the past three years. After a difficult spell as an outcast at Watford, his move to Udinese has served as a major career changer.

Last season proved to be a personal best, as he kept ten clean sheets in 30 league appearances — his most productive campaign since the 2020/21 season with Sparta Rotterdam in the Eredivisie.

​His recent form has sparked interest from both Turin and Istanbul. With reports suggesting that Michele Di Gregorio could exit Juventus this summer, Okoye has been identified as a potential replacement.

Meanwhile, Besiktas are in urgent need of a new goalkeeper following the departures of Ersin Destanoğlu and Devis Vásquez. Udinese appear willing to part ways with their goalkeeper and have already begun scouting for a successor.

​Besiktas Take Concrete Steps to Land Maduka Okoye

​Besiktas appear the more aggressive suitor for the 26-year-old’s services, and this is not surprising, as they are badly shorthanded in that area of the pitch.

According to transfer expert Nicolò Schira, the Turkish club has initiated contact with Udinese to discuss a potential deal. Should these initial talks prove positive, a formal bid is expected to follow shortly.

​Currently valued at €10 million by Transfermarkt, Okoye has seen his valuation climb significantly since Udinese acquired him from Watford for €6 million in 2023. With two years remaining on his contract, the Italian club want a premium on his current market value, as they are demanding €15 million.

​Although Galatasaray currently dominate the Turkish Süper Lig, Besiktas remain one of the nation’s most historic clubs, boasting 16 league titles.

A move to the Black Eagles would represent a significant step up for Okoye, especially considering the club’s intent to spend heavily to compete with their rivals. Moreover, he has a better shot at silverware there, than at Udinese.

Also, with Okoye currently earning around €875,000 yearly in Udine, a move to Turkey would definitely include a substantial salary raise.

​It remains to be seen how the negotiations will pan out, but a summer transfer appears increasingly likely for the Nigerian international. Okoye has played in Germany, Italy, England, and the Netherlands. If the deal goes through, it will be his first experience playing football in Turkey.