Leroy Sane explains Arsenal transfer snub as Bayern Munich winger finalises £12.8m agreement

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter

Published: June 12 2025 | 13:27

Last updated: June 12 2025 | 13:46

Galatasaray-bound attacker Leroy Sane explains why he chose to sign for the Turkish giants over Arsenal as he confirms his exit from Bayern Munich.

Germany attacker Leroy Sane has revealed his motivation for signing for Galatasaray over Arsenal, despite apparent interest from the Gunners.

The former Manchester City man decided against penning a new contract with Bayern Munich, who will therefore wave goodbye to him when he departs as a free agent at the end of the month.

Arsenal were believed to have held talks with Sane's camp over a possible approach for the winger, but they were also warned that a deal for the 29-year-old would throw up "a lot of red flags".

The Athletic reports that the Gunners were 'very strong contenders' in the race for Sane, but he was not the only name on their list, and the German wanted his future sorted as soon as possible.

As a result, Sane is now set to pen a mammoth £12.8m-a-year deal with Galatasaray, and he explained that the significant interest shown in him by the club was a crucial factor in his decision.

Sane confirms "many offers" following Arsenal transfer links

"There were many offers. But Galatasaray as a whole impressed me greatly," Sane told Turkish media following his arrival in Istanbul, as quoted by Metro.

"I was very impressed by the atmosphere, by the size of the club, by how much they wanted me, by how much interest they showed in me. That’s why I’m here at Galatasaray.

"The atmosphere here was always amazing. It was very, very loud. That’s why I’m happy to be back. I can’t wait to play my first game in front of the fans."

The 29-year-old also delivered a heartfelt message to Bayern Munich supporters as he closed his five-year chapter at the Allianz Arena, adding: "After 5 intense years here in Munich, I’ve decided to start a new chapter in the upcoming season.

"I’m incredibly proud to have worn the jersey of the best and biggest club in Germany for over 200 matches and will always cherish the titles we’ve won together.

"Thank you to the club, the coaching staff, everyone behind the scenes, my teammates, and especially you, the fans, for the time we’ve shared and the memories we’ve made. I will forever be grateful for my time here."

Sane departs Bayern having amassed 61 goals and 55 assists in 220 matches for the German giants, winning four Bundesliga titles and one Club World Cup during his time at the Allianz Arena.

Will Arsenal live to regret missing out on Sane deal?

A free transfer for a player of Sane's calibre is always tempting, especially seeing as the Germany international possesses a strong relationship with Mikel Arteta from their time together at the Etihad.

However, even if Arsenal had not had to pay a penny to Bayern Munich, the Gunners would have had to fork out a hefty wage packet to the attacker if his reported Galatasaray salary is anything to go by.

Instead, younger options such as Nico Williams, Rafael Leao and Rodrygo have the potential to be first-team regulars for many more years and will also come with a higher resale value, so Arsenal should react to Sane's decision with a simple shrug of the shoulders.