Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid have set their sights on Ivory Coast defender Wilfried Singo, but Galatasaray are ready to demand at least €40m (£34m) and refuse to budge on his future for now.
The 23-year-old right-back, who impressed for Ivory Coast during the 2026 World Cup, is attracting serious interest across Europe after a strong season in Turkey, where he is regarded as a key figure in Galatasaray’s squad.
However, his salary and his club’s steep asking price are emerging as major obstacles to any potential deal.
Inter talks stall over salary demands
According to sources close to the discussions, Inter Milan have already opened talks with Singo’s camp in recent weeks as they look to strengthen their defensive options for the new season.
But negotiations have hit a standstill over the player’s wages. Singo is currently earning around €4.8m per year at Galatasaray, a figure that Inter’s hierarchy believe would be difficult to match within their current wage structure.
Club officials in Milan are understood to view his salary expectations as excessive, leading them to step back from the idea of tabling a formal offer to Galatasaray. As a result, the Italian side have effectively put the deal “on hold”, at least for the time being.
There is no indication yet that Inter are prepared to revise their stance unless Singo significantly lowers his demands or Galatasaray show willingness to compromise on financial terms.
Atletico Madrid maintain contact
Atletico Madrid have also identified Singo as a potential recruit as they look to refresh their defensive line, but the Spanish club have not yet submitted a bid.
Instead, Atletico are said to be in frequent contact with the player’s entourage, carefully assessing the conditions of a possible move. The La Liga club are monitoring developments closely, trying to position themselves should the situation evolve later in the transfer window.
While Atletico have not reached the same stage of negotiations as Inter, their sustained dialogue suggests they remain seriously interested in the Ivory Coast international.
Premier League side Nottingham Forest are also following the situation, keeping a close watch on any progress among the leading contenders.
Long contract and high valuation
Singo is under contract with Galatasaray until 2030, a lengthy deal that puts the Turkish champions in a strong position at the negotiating table.
The defender’s market value is currently estimated at around €23m, but Galatasaray are not willing to entertain offers at that level. Club executives are understood to be holding out for a minimum of €40m, which they believe more accurately reflects his importance to the team and his long-term potential.
With six years left on his contract and no immediate pressure to sell, Galatasaray can afford to be patient. The Istanbul club view Singo as a central part of their project and are prepared to resist interest unless a bid arrives that matches their valuation.
Uncertain summer ahead
Singo’s standout performances on the international stage have raised his profile significantly, ensuring his name will continue to feature in transfer discussions over the summer.
But with his salary expectations deterring at least one major suitor and Galatasaray holding out for a sizeable transfer fee, any move to Serie A, La Liga or the Premier League is likely to be complex.
For now, Inter Milan have cooled their pursuit, Atletico Madrid are keeping talks alive in the background, and Nottingham Forest remain attentive – while Galatasaray stand firm, insisting that only an exceptional offer will prompt them to part with one of their prized assets.
