Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is on the brink of completing a sensational permanent move to Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray following a standout loan spell from Italian side Napoli during the 2024/25 season.
The 26-year-old forward lit up the Turkish Super Lig with a blistering run of form, netting 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances across all competitions. His decisive performances were instrumental in securing Galatasaray’s third consecutive league title, capped off by a historic hat-trick in a 3–0 victory over Kayserispor that earned the club its prestigious fifth championship star.
Galatasaray is now looking to make Osimhen’s stay permanent, with Turkish daily Sabah reporting that negotiations with Napoli are well advanced. The Istanbul club is reportedly prepared to pay €66 million ($72 million), in addition to the €9 million already spent on his initial loan, bringing the total value of the deal to €75 million, potentially the most expensive signing in Turkish football history.
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To fund the ambitious transfer, Galatasaray has launched an innovative fan-backed initiative, including a new AI-driven mobile app aimed at raising revenue through premium memberships. The club aims to attract 500,000 subscribers at 2,500 Turkish Lira each, with proceeds earmarked for the first installment of Osimhen’s transfer fee.
Victor Osimhen (Photo credit: Getty Images)
Osimhen’s potential arrival on a permanent basis would mark a significant coup for Galatasaray, especially considering the fierce competition for his signature. English Premier League giants Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea have all expressed interest, with former United defender Rio Ferdinand claiming Osimhen is “waiting for” a move to Old Trafford. Juventus has also reportedly placed the striker high on their summer wish list, while Saudi club Al-Hilal tabled a staggering €30 million-per-year offer, which Osimhen is said to have declined in favor of continuing his career in Europe.
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Napoli, whose initial reluctance saw them reject a €65 million bid from Galatasaray in January, now appear more open to a deal. With Osimhen’s contract set to expire in 2026, though it includes an option to extend until 2027, the Serie A club may be willing to negotiate during the summer transfer window rather than risk losing him for less down the line.
Galatasaray is reportedly offering Osimhen a four-year deal worth €15 million net annually (around ₦27 billion), which would make him the highest-paid player in the club’s history. The proposed contract also includes Champions League exposure and a strategic clause for a future transfer, with profit-sharing incentives that align with the striker’s long-term ambitions.
If completed, the move would not only strengthen Galatasaray’s position in both domestic and European competitions but also reinforce the Super Lig’s growing reputation as a destination for elite talent.
