Mario Lemina ‘rejects’ Saudi offer, Galatasaray left blindsided | OneFootball

Galatasaray were caught off guard by a Saudi Pro League move for Mario Lemina, which the midfielder swiftly turned down, Sabah reports.

Al-Khaleej approached his representatives with an astronomical, multi-million-dollar salary designed to lure the 32-year-old to the Gulf.

The champions had braced for a complicated window, conscious they might need to replace a core defensive pillar if the numbers proved irresistible.

Instead, Lemina responded immediately and told his inner circle and club directors he had no plan to leave Istanbul. He recently extended his deal to June 2027 and is focused on chasing trophies and the UEFA Champions League next season.

Last term he made 43 appearances across all competitions, an undisputed starter in Okan Buruk’s double pivot. In Europe he logged 730 minutes across nine matches, with a goal and an assist. In the Süper Lig he posted 91.5% pass completion and dominated duels to protect the back four.

With the issue settled before pre-season, Galatasaray can now target attacking reinforcements rather than scrambling for cover at the base of midfield.

Source: Turkish-Football.com