Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has finally addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his transfer to Galatasaray.
The striker, who had been sidelined from Napoli’s squad by new manager Antonio Conte following his desire to leave the club, has now opened up about the move.
Napoli recently signed Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea as a replacement for Osimhen, leaving the Nigerian international in a precarious situation. A potential last-minute transfer to Chelsea was also on the cards, with a proposed loan move including an obligation to buy. However, the deal ultimately fell through after Osimhen reportedly demanded a wage package of over £300,000 per week, according to Sky Sports.
With the Chelsea move collapsing, Osimhen’s future seemed uncertain. Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli, who had expressed interest in signing him, decided to shift their focus to Brentford striker Ivan Toney, securing a deal with him instead. Osimhen had reportedly agreed to the transfer to Al-Ahli, a move that would have made him the highest-paid Nigerian player in history.
As the transfer windows for Saudi and European leagues closed, Napoli reached an agreement to loan Osimhen to Galatasaray. Unlike most European leagues, Turkish clubs have an extended transfer window, which remains open until September 13.
Osimhen arrived in Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, early Tuesday morning, greeted by thousands of enthusiastic Galatasaray fans who celebrated his arrival with drums and chants. Speaking about his new club, Osimhen expressed his excitement and commitment, saying, “I am ready to give my best for them. This is one of the best sets of fans in the world. It feels good to be here, and I am absolutely excited. I cannot wait to see them in the stadium and hear how they scream when I score.”
Before the move is officially confirmed, Osimhen is expected to complete his medical examinations with Galatasaray. The Turkish club has agreed to cover Osimhen’s full salary during his loan period, but they will not be obligated to purchase the striker at the end of the season, as reported by Sky Italia.
The football community now eagerly awaits the official announcement of Osimhen’s loan to Galatasaray, which promises to be a significant chapter in his career.
