Kyle Walker-Peters’ expected move to Turkish side Besiktas has collapsed after the player failed to report for his scheduled medical, despite the club previously announcing an agreement for his transfer. The former Southampton defender had been in advanced talks with the Super Lig side, where he was set to join up with Ole Gunnar Solskjær, now managing in Turkey.
Walker-Peters had been identified by Solskjær as a priority signing to reinforce the right-back position, with the Norwegian keen to add experienced Premier League talent to his new-look squad. The 28-year-old, who has also featured for Tottenham Hotspur, was seen as an ideal acquisition following his departure from Southampton earlier this summer.
Player Delay Leads to Collapse of Deal
Besiktas were confident that the deal had been secured and had planned for Walker-Peters to travel to Istanbul earlier this week to finalise the move. The defender was expected to undergo a medical and sign his new contract, but he requested additional time before travelling, reportedly citing personal considerations.
This request appears to have frustrated the Besiktas hierarchy, who had been keen to complete the transfer in time for their pre-season training schedule. The Turkish club subsequently cancelled the deal after Walker-Peters failed to confirm his arrival date, ending the possibility of a free transfer for the English full-back.
Solskjær Back in Market for a Right-Back
According to VG, Besiktas made the decision to withdraw their offer after Walker-Peters did not meet the deadline for his medical. The move had been viewed as a financially prudent solution for the club, given that the player was available on a free transfer. However, the club will now return to the market in search of an alternative option for the right flank.
Walker-Peters remains a player of interest to other clubs across Europe, and his availability on a free transfer is likely to generate further interest. For Solskjær and Besiktas, attention must now turn to identifying a new target, with the start of the new season rapidly approaching and squad reinforcements still required.
