Ollie Watkins Links to Turkey: 7 England Stars Who Played There Before

Ollie Watkins is set to follow England’s growing trend of stars moving to Turkey’s Süper Lig, with reports linking him to a high-profile club. Seven current or former England internationals have already made the jump-here’s who, and what it signals for Watkins’ future.**

Who are the 7 England players already in Turkey?

The list includes Harry Winks (Galatasaray), Kieran Trippier (Fenerbahçe), Reece James (Fenerbahçe), Jude Bellingham (Bayer Leverkusen-though linked to Turkey in 2023), Marc Guéhi (Galatasaray), Callum Wilson (Fenerbahçe), and Jack Grealish (Fenerbahçe). All have thrived in Turkey’s competitive league, with Winks and Trippier becoming fan favorites.

Why Turkey? The financial and tactical pull

Turkish clubs offer higher wages, lower taxes, and a relaxed work-life balance-key factors for England stars. Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray are Europe’s most-watched domestic leagues, with €100m+ transfer budgets and stadiums seating 50,000+. For Watkins, a €40m+ move could be tempting, especially if Aston Villa push for a sale.

What does this mean for Ollie Watkins’ future?

Watkins’ 2023/24 season was his best yet-12 Premier League goals, 5 assists, and a €60m valuation. If he joins Turkey, he’d follow Bellingham’s 2023 path-a star who left England early for a bigger stage. Villa’s financial struggles make a move likely, with January 2027 the earliest window.

Who’s next? The England players still linked

Beyond Watkins, Conor Gallagher (Everton), Phil Foden (Manchester City), and James Maddison (Tottenham) have been speculated about Turkey in the past. If Watkins goes, more could follow-especially midfielders and forwards who want €150k+ weekly wages without Premier League pressure.

Source: MSN (13 Jul 2026)-Ollie Watkins links to Turkey grow as 7 England stars prove the move works.