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Emir Ortakaya’s development in Turkey has drawn attention from Southampton, according to Akşam.

Fenerbahçe took the centre-back from Gençlerbirliği in 2021 and included him in their youth squad. He wasn’t given an opportunity to represent their first team and was sent out on loan to Göztepe last summer.

The 18-year-old has not only been a regular for Göztepe but has also starred for them, which has helped him attract interest from Southampton, Marseille and Lyon.

He’s made 25 appearances in all competitions for the second division Turkish club this season.

The Saints and the two French clubs have been closely following the defender’s progress at Göztepe. The possibility of these teams knocking on Fenerbahçe’s door in the summer is not to be ruled out.

Rubén Sellés’ side, Marseille and Lyon have long set their sights on the teenager, who is currently valued at €500,000. They are willing to invest a lot to secure his services.

Fenerbahçe consider Ortakaya, who has a contract until 2027, as an ‘important talent’. A €10m fee ‘expected’ by them to let go of the Turkey U19 international in the summer.

Southampton are bottom of the table and there’s no mention whether Ortakaya will be open to joining them if they get relegated.