Jose Mourinho targets five outrageous signings that will turn Fenerbahce into European powerhouse
Jose Mourinho is reportedly gearing up for one of the most ambitious transfer windows in Turkish football history, as he prepares to reshape Fenerbahce’s squad in pursuit of long-overdue domestic glory. After an entertaining yet ultimately disappointing debut season in charge of the Istanbul giants, the Portuguese tactician is determined to build a title-winning team and end the club’s decade-long championship drought.
Mourinho, who took the reins at Fenerbahce last year, made headlines on and off the pitch throughout the campaign. While his fiery press conferences and dramatic interviews provided plenty of entertainment, his team fell short of delivering silverware. Fenerbahce finished second in the Super Lig, trailing fierce rivals Galatasaray by a considerable 11-point margin after 36 matches — an outcome that left fans frustrated and hungry for change.
The club has not lifted the Turkish league title since 2014, when Ersun Yanal led them to glory. Now, with just one year left on his current contract, Mourinho is said to be orchestrating a massive recruitment drive in a last-ditch bid to bring the trophy back to the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium. According to Turkish outlet Fanatik, via Record, Fenerbahce are preparing to go “completely crazy” in the market — with plans for up to five high-profile signings, including a sensational attempt to land Brazilian superstar Neymar.
Mourinho Eyes Neymar as Crown Jewel of Transfer Strategy
Perhaps the most eye-catching target on Mourinho’s radar is Neymar, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain icon. The 32-year-old recently returned to his boyhood club Santos following a forgettable stint with Saudi side Al Hilal that was marred by injuries and controversy. Despite being in talks to extend his stay in Brazil, reports suggest Fenerbahce are seriously interested in luring Neymar to Istanbul with a lucrative one-and-a-half-year contract offer.
The move, if successful, would be a commercial and sporting masterstroke, with Neymar’s global appeal likely to result in a surge of shirt sales and fan engagement. Mourinho sees Neymar not only as a game-changer on the pitch but also as a marquee name capable of elevating the club’s global brand.
Double Raid on PSG Also in the Works
In addition to Neymar, Mourinho is reportedly targeting a double swoop for Paris Saint-Germain duo Gonçalo Ramos and Kang-in Lee. The two rising talents are believed to be on Fenerbahce’s wishlist as the club seeks to inject youth and dynamism into its attacking ranks. There is optimism that a deal can be struck, with Fanatik highlighting the strong relationship between the presidents of both clubs as a key factor in ongoing negotiations.
However, not all of Fenerbahce’s PSG-related ambitions are bearing fruit. An attempt to sign French forward Randal Kolo Muani appears to have stalled, as the player is reportedly leaning toward remaining with Juventus, where he spent the latter half of the previous season on loan.
Spurs Captain Heung-Min Son Also on Mourinho’s Wishlist
Another stunning target for Mourinho is none other than Tottenham Hotspur captain Heung-Min Son. The South Korean forward, who shares a strong relationship with Mourinho from their time together in North London, is reportedly considering a fresh challenge after helping Spurs lift the Europa League trophy — their first piece of silverware in 17 years. With just one year remaining on his current contract, Son is seen as a realistic target for Fenerbahce, particularly with Mourinho personally pushing for a reunion.
Reports suggest that Fenerbahce are preparing a “crazy offer” to try and persuade Son to make the move to Turkey, where he would be one of the biggest names in the league.
Kyle Walker Lined Up as Defensive Reinforcement
On the defensive end, Mourinho is also eyeing reinforcements, and Manchester City captain Kyle Walker has emerged as a prime candidate. The veteran right-back, who spent the second half of last season on loan at AC Milan, is reportedly not in City’s future plans and is available for transfer. Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu claims that Fenerbahce have already submitted a formal bid for the 35-year-old defender.
Should the move materialize, Walker would likely serve as a direct replacement for Nigerian full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel, who is set to leave Fenerbahce on a free transfer and is expected to join rivals Besiktas. Mourinho believes Walker’s experience, leadership, and versatility could prove invaluable as he looks to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.
A Bold Summer Ahead for Fenerbahce
If even a fraction of Mourinho’s reported targets come to fruition, Fenerbahce could find themselves with one of the most star-studded squads in recent Super Lig history. The club is clearly ready to back Mourinho in the market, trusting the veteran coach to deliver success where others have failed.
With transfer rumors heating up and negotiations underway, fans will be watching closely to see whether Mourinho’s vision becomes reality. One thing is certain — Fenerbahce’s summer transfer window promises to be anything but boring.