Cenk Özkacar has joined Trabzonspor from Valencia in a permanent transfer worth a reported €1.75 million. The 25-year-old Turkey international departs Valencia after failing to establish a consistent role with the Spanish club, despite initial promise upon his arrival. The move brings Özkacar back to his home country for the first time since leaving as a youth prospect.
Özkacar spent the 2022-23 season on loan at Bundesliga side Köln, where he made 25 appearances in the German top flight. While Köln had an option to make the deal permanent for €2 million, they ultimately decided against triggering the clause, opening the door for Trabzonspor to secure his signature. Schalke, recently promoted to the Bundesliga, also expressed interest in the defender, but Özkacar preferred a return to Turkey.
Özkacar began his professional career with Altay SK in the Turkish second tier before moving to Lyon at the age of 20. He then signed for Valencia in 2021, initially featuring in La Liga, but subsequently spent time on loan as he struggled for regular game time. He has earned nine caps for the Turkish national team, demonstrating his international recognition.
Trabzonspor will be hoping Özkacar can solidify their defense ahead of the upcoming Süper Lig season. The club finished sixth in the league last season and will be aiming for a Champions League qualification spot. Schalke, meanwhile, continue their search for defensive reinforcements, with Brighton’s Igor Julio and former Augsburg player Felix Uduokhai also reportedly on their shortlist.
