Transfer Centre

Emre Belozoglu: 'Mesut Ozil is closer than ever to joining Fenerbahce'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 14 January 2021

Fenerbahce sporting director Emre Belozoglu says that Arsenal attacker Mesut Ozil is currently "closer than ever" to joining the club.

Fenerbahce sporting director Emre Belozoglu has said that Mesut Ozil is currently "closer than ever" to joining the Turkish giants.

The 32-year-old's contract with Arsenal is due to expire this summer, and the attacker continues to be strongly linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, having not made a single appearance this season.

Fenerbahce and DC United have been credited with an interest in the former Germany international, and the Istanbul club have now directly addressed Ozil's future ahead of a possible switch.

"Mesut Ozil has been one of the most special players in the world for his position in the last 20 years," Emre told reporters. "If this transfer takes place, it will be a first. I regard it as a very positive move for both our community and our president, but I don't think it will be easy. We have our own plans. And Mesut has a contract with his club.

"He is a superstar. We are talking about a player who contributes to goals in every other game, regardless of which team he plays for. I will be extremely pleased if Fenerbahce can have such a player, especially while we are on duty.

"We had a meeting with him and his agent. It's happening slowly, but Mesut is closer than ever to Fenerbahce. The fact that Mesut's childhood dream is still alive and Fenerbahce has such a dream has made this step so close for the first time."

Ozil, who has not been involved for Mikel Arteta's side since last March, recently revealed that he would only join Fenerbahce if he were to move to a Turkish club.