Liverpool and Arsenal sent scouts to watch Galatasaray playmaker Aleksey Batrakov during his team's 4-2 Champions League victory at Lille on Wednesday. The 21-year-old scored in the fixture as Galatasaray continued their strong European campaign. Chelsea and both Manchester clubs are also monitoring the Russian international.
Batrakov joined Galatasaray from Lokomotiv Moscow in August, with the Turkish club reportedly choosing him over Bruno Fernandes. His contract includes a £50m release clause, significantly higher than the transfer fee Galatasaray paid. The move to Turkey makes him more accessible to English clubs, as direct transfers from Russia have been complicated by UK government sanctions.
The playmaker has now scored in consecutive Champions League matches, adding to his goal against Barcelona last week. Scouts and analysts highlight his technical ability, decision-making and work rate as standout qualities that would suit Arne Slot's tactical approach at Liverpool.
