Napoli have rejected Turkish Champions, Galatasaray third bid of €75 million for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen.
The Italian club has reportedly demanded a bank guarantee before greenlighting any move an insistence that sources say is rooted in Galatasaray’s recent transfer payment delays, raising fears of potential default.
According to journalist Buchi Laba, he believes the Italian champions are “intentionally frustrating the deal” in a bid to wear down their resistance, while also trying to pressure the player to consider a move to Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal ready to meet their demands
Osimhen: No to Al Hilal, Yes to Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen has made his intentions clear. The 26-year-old has ruled out a transfer to Al Hilal and is refusing to consider offers outside of Galatasaray.
He is also reported to have informed Napoli that he will not report for pre-season training and has no desire to remain at the club.
“Victor only wants Galatasaray,” said Laba. “He’s not interested in any Saudi deal, regardless of the money on offer.”
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Despite the player’s firm position, Napoli are unwilling to proceed without full financial safeguards.
Köhn Deal Spurs Napoli’s Caution
Napoli’s demand stems from Galatasaray’s recent failure to meet financial terms in other transfer dealings.
One such example is the signing of Derrick Köhn from German club Hannover 96. Though the deal was modest €3.35 million plus bonuses—Galatasaray initially paid only €1.5 million.
Hannover had to escalate the issue to FIFA after delays persisted, eventually threatening a transfer registration ban.
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The matter was only resolved after Galatasaray paid the outstanding amount with interest.
In that context, Napoli’s insistence on a bank guarantee for Osimhen’s €75m fee appears both prudent and justified.
Why Napoli’s Demand Makes Sense
- Requiring a bank guarantee ensures:
- The transfer fee is paid in full and on time.
- Napoli avoid legal battles or financial exposure.
- Compliance with Serie A’s liquidity rules is maintained during squad rebuilding.
A €75 million transfer would be transformative for Napoli’s plans, and club insiders argue that trusting Galatasaray’s verbal assurances is too risky.
