Valencia have stepped up their interest in Ghana international Jerome Opoku as they look to secure a major defensive signing for the summer transfer window, according to Africafoot.
The Spanish side, currently battling at the wrong end of the La Liga table, are understood to have initiated contact with Istanbul Basaksehir regarding the availability of the 27-year-old centre-back.
Opoku, who joined the Turkish club permanently from Arouca in 2024, has become a key figure in the Süper Lig, attracting interest from several European sides including Premier League duo Fulham and Nottingham Forest.
It is understood that Basaksehir have placed an €8m (£6.7m) valuation on the defender, a figure Valencia are reportedly prepared to meet to bolster a backline that has struggled for consistency this season.
Long-term target
The London-born defender, a former Fulham academy graduate, has a contract in Istanbul until 2027. However, the prospect of a move to one of Spain’s historic clubs is thought to be an attractive proposition for the player.
Opoku back on the radar, as Fulham and Nottingham Forest battle for him
Sources suggest Valencia are ready to offer Opoku a four-year deal with a salary in the region of €2.75m per year.
While the deal is primarily focused on a summer arrival, the move signals Valencia’s intent to avoid a repeat of this season’s defensive frailties, which have left them sitting 17th in the standings.
Player Profile
- Age: 27
- Height: 1.97m
- Current Club: Istanbul Basaksehir
- International Caps: 9 (Ghana)
- Market Value: €5m
Opoku has been a mainstay for Basaksehir this term, making 21 appearances across all competitions and playing a pivotal role in their rise to seventh in the Süper Lig. His height and ball-playing ability from the left side of central defense are seen as key attributes that would adapt well to the Spanish top flight.
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The defender is also expected to be a part of Ghana’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America, further increasing his profile ahead of the summer window.
