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Victor Osimhen, Nigerian international soccer star
There are new developments in the Victor Osimhen saga during this summer transfer window. Galatasaray has submitted a formal offer to Napoli to secure the permanent signing of the Nigerian international striker.
Indeed, the Turkish giants are doing everything they can to land Osimhen and have made an official offer to Napoli for the Nigerian.
However, the Partenopei have already turned down the offer and are demanding the full amount of his release clause, set at €75 million. For his part, the Nigerian striker has already given the green light to a possible return to Turkey.
With this new development, Daily Sun brings to you five key points about Victor Osimhen’s potential permanent transfer to Galatasaray.
1. Osimhen’s desire to stay: Victor Osimhen has expressed a strong preference to remain with Galatasaray following a successful 2024/25 loan spell from Napoli, where he scored 37 goals and provided 8 assists in 41 appearances, helping the club win the Turkish Super Lig and Turkish Cup.
He has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Galatasaray, including a €16 million-per-year contract for three years, with an option for an additional year.
2. Transfer fee dispute: Galatasaray submitted an offer of €50 million plus €5 million in add-ons to Napoli, but Napoli are holding firm on Osimhen’s €75 million release clause for non-Italian clubs.
Negotiations are ongoing, with Galatasaray hoping to secure a discount, potentially with the help of local sponsors in Turkey to fund the deal.
3. Competition from other clubs: Despite interest from clubs like Al-Hilal (who were willing to pay the €75 million clause), Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal, Osimhen has prioritised Galatasaray.
He rejected a lucrative €45 million offer from Al-Hilal and turned down Manchester United due to their request to reduce his wage demands.
4. Impact on Galatasaray: Osimhen’s potential permanent move is seen as a major coup for Turkish football, potentially reshaping the narrative of top African talents succeeding outside Europe’s “big five” leagues.
His presence has already boosted Galatasaray’s profile, with his loan spell breaking the club’s jersey sales record.
5. Concerns and challenges: Turkish football commentator Yusuf Kenan Celik has warned that Osimhen’s signing could disrupt the dressing room balance.
Additionally, suppose no deal is finalised by mid-July. In that case, Osimhen may be required to return to Napoli for pre-season training under coach Antonio Conte, as Napoli are firm on not reintegrating him into the squad and prefer to sell him. (Daily Sun)