Galatasaray to sign Iraq’s dazzling U-20 star Ali Adnan

ISTANBUL

Galatasaray has been looking for a player for the left back position and considers Iraq’s U-20 star Ali Adnan for the position. Adnan is 19 years old.

Galatasaray is set to sign Iraq U-20 star Ali Adnan El Kadhim, the Turkish media reported on July 12. The Turkish champion is closing in to finalize the talks with the 19-year-old left-back, who plays for Iraq’s Baghdad FC, reports said.

Galatasaray has been looking for a player for the left back position, where it had faced problems last season. The Lions had to switch Albert Riera, originally a left winger, to the back position last season when first-choice player Hakan Balta had injury and fitness problems.

Ali Adnan starred during the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup games in Turkey, as he was one of the key players leading Iraq to its competition-best semifinal run.

Ali Adnan scored two goals in the competition, one against England to lead a 2-2 comeback in the group stages, and another stunning free kick in the 1-1 draw against Uruguay in the semifinal. Iraq then lost the game on penalties. An attack-minded left back, Ali Adnan possesses a strong physique and a powerful long-range shooting ability.