Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek says he is confident Victor Osimhen will remain at the club, after the Nigerian striker reportedly turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia in favour of staying in Europe.
The 26-year-old joined the Turkish champions on a season-long loan from Napoli last September and has enjoyed a sensational campaign, scoring 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances across all competitions.
Speaking to Turkish newspaper Hürriyet, Özbek expressed optimism that a permanent deal could soon be reached.
“Victor Osimhen is staying at Galatasaray. His affection will be the most important factor. The negotiations are ongoing. We hope to give you good news in a week,” Özbek said.
Osimhen had drawn interest from several top European clubs as well as from Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal, who reportedly matched his €75m release clause and offered a staggering £34 million per year salary, around £650,000 a week including bonuses.
READ MORE: jennifer-echegini-ready-to-carry-super-falcons-legacy-into-wafcon-2025
However, the Super Eagles forward is understood to have rejected the offer, signalling his preference to remain in Europe, where he believes the level of competition better suits his ambitions.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
The striker’s decision boosts Galatasaray’s hopes of retaining a player who played a pivotal role in their domestic success under manager Okan Buruk. Talks over a permanent move are ongoing, with an official update expected in the coming days.
