Turkish giants Besiktas set sights on Memphis Depay as Conrinthians departure looms

Dutch international of Ghanaian descent Memphis Depay has emerged as a top transfer target for Turkish giants Besiktas.

The 30-year-old forward signed a two-year deal with Corinthians in September 2024 after leaving Atletico Madrid, a move many considered surprising given his pedigree. He quickly established himself as a key figure for the Brazilian powerhouse, helping them secure the Campeonato Paulista in March after defeating arch-rivals Palmeiras.

However, despite his bright start, Depay’s relationship with Corinthians has soured due to unpaid entitlements. The club reportedly owes him €1.7 million in bonuses and still needs to settle the second installment of his €1 million signing bonus by September 15.

Amid Corinthians’ worsening financial struggles, the Dutch-Ghanaian forward is now weighing an early contract termination, having already taken steps to protect his rights. Depay officially notified the club over the debts earlier this year and even staged a training boycott in July after his complaints went unanswered under former president Augusto Melo.

Besiktas have since stepped forward with strong interest, monitoring the situation closely as they seek to bolster their squad with the former Manchester United, Barcelona, and Lyon star before the transfer window shuts.

With Depay still regarded as a central figure at Corinthians, the Brazilian side faces growing pressure to resolve the standoff quickly or risk losing one of their most influential players.