Sports journalist detained over fake transfer news of Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala joining Galatasaray

Turkish sports journalist, Burhan Can Terzi was detained by police after reporting that Galatasaray were close to signing Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala.

Terzi reportedly made the claim on July 26, saying the Turkish club were nearing a deal for the Germany international. Galatasaray later denied the report, describing claims of a move for Musiala as completely unfounded and suggesting they were part of an attempt to discredit the club’s transfer operations.

According to Turkish outlet Haberler, Terzi was detained as part of an investigation ordered by the Bakırköy Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office on allegations of “public dissemination of misleading information”.

The Sun reported that it was the first high-profile detention of a sports journalist in Turkey under the country’s disinformation law.

Reports said Terzi continued to stand by his story after Galatasaray’s denial and was quoted as saying he was “putting my life on the line” for the report.

It remains unclear whether Galatasaray itself filed a complaint. Reports suggest complaints from football supporters prompted the investigation after the club rejected the transfer claim.

Terzi was released a few hours after being detained, and no restrictions were reportedly imposed on him.