Victor Osimhen has admitted that financial complications were the toughest part of his transfer to Galatasaray, despite receiving offers from several leading European clubs.
The Nigeria striker, who scored in Galatasaray’s 3-1 win over Rizespor on Saturday, said moving to Istanbul was far from straightforward.
“The difficult part of my transfer was the financial aspect,” Osimhen explained. “I received offers from some big clubs. It would be a lie if I said I wasn’t interested, but I’m very happy to be here. I’m very happy to be at Galatasaray.”
Osimhen joined the Turkish champions after a prolific spell in Serie A, where he finished as the league’s top scorer in 2022/23 and fired Napoli to their first Scudetto in 33 years.
Osimhen celebrating at Galatasaray. Photo Credit; Getty Images
His exploits saw him crowned CAF African Footballer of the Year, finish eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings, and set a new record as the highest-scoring African in Serie A history with 65 goals.
READ MORE: Rangers CEO Amobi Ezeaku reflects on life after health scare
The 26-year-old is already a fan favourite in Istanbul, having previously enjoyed a loan spell at Galatasaray in which he scored 37 goals and registered eight assists, inspiring the club to a league and cup double.
Osimhen celebrating his goal at Galatasaray with his teammates. Photo Credit; Getty Images
His permanent return this summer came at a record-breaking cost. Galatasaray paid a reported €75m, smashing the Turkish transfer record previously held by Beşiktaş, who signed Orkun Kökçü for €25m earlier in the window.
Osimhen is believed to be earning €15m net annually on a four-year contract, alongside an estimated €10m in commercial endorsements, making him one of the best-paid players in Turkish football history.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL
The Super Eagles striker will now join up with Nigeria’s squad for September’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.
