Two high-profile managers are reportedly making personal appeal to sign Nigeria and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen within the next 48 hours. Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk and Al-Hilal’s Simone Inzaghi have both contacted Osimhen, each trying to persuade him to join their respective clubs.
Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk reportedly called Osimhen to convince him to stay permanently in Turkey following a prolific loan spell in Istanbul. Buruk outlined his ambitious plans for the new season, hoping to build a Champions League-chasing side around the Nigerian striker. The Turkish tactician also reaffirmed Osimhen’s central role in the team’s project, especially after the arrival of free-agent Leroy Sané.
Before Buruk’s call, Osimhen received a call from Simone Inzaghi, the newly appointed Al-Hilal boss. Inzaghi personally presented the Saudi club’s mega offer, a three-year deal worth €40 million net per season, making Osimhen the highest-paid Nigerian player in history. Al-Hilal is willing to trigger Osimhen’s €75 million release clause, making the Saudi Pro League a lucrative option for the striker.
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While Buruk and Inzaghi are making personal appeals, Liverpool is taking a different approach – cold negotiation. Talks between the Reds and Napoli have intensified, with a complex triple-swap deal involving Darwin Núñez, Federico Chiesa, and additional cash reportedly on the table. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is standing firm, demanding the full €75 million clause.
Victor Osimhen in action for Galatasaray (photo credit (Getty images)
For Osimhen, the decision looms: return to familiar glory at Galatasaray, chase a golden payday in Saudi Arabia, or answer Liverpool’s call to Premier League glory. With two calls in two days, one of football’s most coveted signatures is still up for grabs. Napoli’s exit door appears wide open, and Osimhen’s departure is key to Napoli’s rebuild under Antonio Conte.
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The funds from Osimhen’s sale would unlock moves for PSV’s Noa Lang, Bologna’s Dan Ndoye, and possibly Darwin Núñez. With Khvicha Kvaratskhelia already off to PSG in January, Napoli are gearing up for a new offensive era. Liverpool, fresh off a £190 million summer spree, views Osimhen as their missing No.9 – a powerful forward who fits Arne Slot’s high-pressing attacking system.
As the transfer window remains open, Osimhen’s future hangs in the balance. Will he return to Galatasaray, join Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, or make a move to Liverpool? The world waits with bated breath as one of football’s most talented strikers weighs his options.
