Imagine leaving one of Europe’s biggest clubs, walking straight into a frenzy of fans, and signing a contract that instantly makes you one of the highest-paid players in the game — that’s exactly what Leroy Sané just did.
The German winger has traded Bayern Munich for Galatasaray, and let’s just say he didn’t come cheap.
Bigger Paycheck Than Almost Every Premier League Star
Sané is set to earn a staggering £10.23 million per season after tax, a figure that tops all Premier League players except Erling Haaland.
To put it in UK terms, that’s around £410,000 per week gross, according to football finance analyst Stefan Borson.
That means Sané will now out-earn top-flight stars like Mohamed Salah (£400,000/week), Virgil van Dijk, and Casemiro, both earning around £350,000 a week.
The Breakdown: Bonus and All
Galatasaray have been unusually transparent with the numbers.
Sané’s new deal includes:
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£7.7 million net in basic salary
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£2.5 million loyalty bonus per season
With a three-year contract starting from July 1, Sané stands to walk away with over £30 million during his time in Turkey.
No wonder fans flooded the Istanbul airport to welcome him like royalty.
Quiet Exit From Bayern, Explosive Arrival in Turkey
While Sané was being celebrated in Turkey, things were far more muted at Bayern Munich’s training camp in Orlando.
His former teammates seemed caught off guard.
“Leroy hasn’t reported to the team,” said goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, while Thomas Müller added he had “no idea” what was going on.
Officially, Bayern says he’s still part of their squad until his contract ends June 30, and he could feature in the Club World Cup.
Farewell From Munich, Hello to New Beginnings
Sané took to Instagram to thank Bayern for five unforgettable years, over 200 appearances, and four Bundesliga titles. He called it a “new chapter,” and one he’s clearly ready for.
“Thanks to the fans, my teammates, and everyone at the club. I’ll always be proud to have worn this jersey,” he wrote.
A League of Big Names and Big Money
Sané’s salary now eclipses any other player in Turkey.
For context, Besiktas star Rafa Silva, the next highest earner, is reportedly on just £2.84 million a year – barely a third of what Sané will make.
But the Turkish Super League is no stranger to big names.
Mauro Icardi, Ciro Immobile, Dries Mertens, Edin Džeko, and even José Mourinho in the dugout are part of its growing appeal.
In fact, more than 100 players now reportedly earn over £1 million annually in Turkey.
Why Galatasaray? The Vibes and the Vision
Sané admitted he had multiple offers — Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham were all reportedly in the mix, and Bayern even considered renewing.
But Galatasaray’s energy, fan culture, and determination to sign him tipped the scales.
“The club’s atmosphere really moved me,” he said.
“They showed they really wanted me.
That means a lot.”
What It Means for Turkish Football
Galatasaray’s bold move is part of a broader financial surge in the Turkish Super League.
With total club salaries reportedly hitting over £412 million, Turkey now rivals the combined spending of leagues in Portugal and the Netherlands — though still trails behind Europe’s “Big Five.”
One Last Title With Bayern?
Before his official debut in Istanbul, Sané might still make one final appearance for Bayern in the Club World Cup.
With group games against Auckland City, Benfica, and Boca Juniors, the Bavarians could yet call on him one last time.
So, What’s Next?
All eyes now turn to how Sané will perform in Turkey.
Will his huge paycheck be matched by success on the pitch? Can he become the poster boy for a league looking to stake its claim on the European football map?
One thing’s certain — Galatasaray didn’t just sign a winger, they made a statement.