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.**

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.

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.

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.

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.*