Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly set his sights on joining Turkish giants Galatasaray if his much-anticipated move to one of Europe’s top clubs fails to materialise this summer. The revelation comes amid swirling speculation surrounding his future as the Napoli forward edges closer to a summer exit.
Football analyst and former player Evren Turhan broke the news during a transfer-focused discussion, shedding light on Galatasaray’s summer ambitions and Osimhen’s growing interest in the Istanbul-based club.
“The Victor Osimhen issue will definitely be clear by July 10. If Europe doesn’t work, Osimhen’s priority is Galatasaray,” Turhan said in comments reported by Turkish outlet Habersarikirmizi.
According to Turhan, Galatasaray’s hierarchy is fully aware of Osimhen’s interest and is actively exploring ways to bring the prolific striker to Turkey. The club’s president, Dursun Özbek, is said to be personally committed to making the deal happen, aligning with fans’ desires to see a marquee signing lead the attack next season.
“Galatasaray management said this. President Dursun Özbek and his management also know and expect this,” Turhan added.
“Dursun Özbek, in particular, is working very hard to fulfill this request of Galatasaray fans.”
Galatasaray’s Growing Ambitions
Galatasaray, fresh from another successful season in the Turkish Super Lig, is aiming to bolster its squad significantly as it prepares for European competition. The club has been linked with several high-profile targets, but Osimhen is believed to be at the top of the wishlist.
Osimhen’s potential arrival would not only be a massive statement of intent but also a significant commercial win for Galatasaray, as the player enjoys immense popularity across Africa and Europe. His inclusion could attract more global attention to the Turkish league, much like recent high-profile signings in Saudi Arabia have boosted that region’s football visibility.
Osimhen’s Uncertain Future at Napoli
Victor Osimhen, 26, is widely expected to leave Napoli this summer after an impressive spell in Serie A, where he played a pivotal role in helping the club win their first league title in over three decades during the 2022/23 season. Despite a mixed 2023/24 campaign marred by injuries and managerial instability, the Nigerian striker remains a hot property on the transfer market.
With a reported release clause of around €120 million, only a select few clubs in Europe have the financial muscle to secure his services. Premier League sides Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United, as well as Italian powerhouse Juventus, have all been linked with the Super Eagles forward. However, none have made a formal offer that meets Napoli’s valuation.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has confirmed the club is willing to negotiate Osimhen’s exit under the right conditions, but no agreement has yet been reached.
Galatasaray as Plan B — or Plan A?
While Galatasaray may not have the same financial clout as top Premier League or Serie A clubs, the Turkish side is banking on their passionate fanbase, Champions League qualification, and the personal involvement of their leadership to lure Osimhen.
Football observers believe that should the expected bids from top-tier European clubs not arrive — or fall short of expectations — Osimhen could opt for Galatasaray as a strategic move to maintain his form and visibility on the continental stage.
The club is said to be working on an innovative financial package that could involve commercial incentives, image rights deals, and co-branding opportunities to make the move attractive.
A Deadline Emerges: July 10
According to Evren Turhan, a deadline of July 10 has been set for Osimhen’s camp to finalise his future. If no suitable offer from a European heavyweight emerges by then, negotiations between the Nigerian international and Galatasaray are expected to intensify.
The next two weeks will be crucial for all parties involved. For Galatasaray, it represents a chance to land one of the most prolific forwards outside of the top five leagues. For Osimhen, it’s an opportunity to take charge of his destiny and potentially become the face of a historic club with continental ambitions.
What’s at Stake for Osimhen?
Osimhen’s decision will not only impact his club future but could also shape his trajectory with the Nigerian national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the next Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
Staying active in a competitive league with regular Champions League exposure will be essential. While Galatasaray may not seem like the most conventional choice for a player of Osimhen’s calibre, the club’s prestige, ambition, and fan loyalty may offer the kind of platform he needs to stay at the top of his game.
Conclusion
Victor Osimhen’s next move remains one of the most closely watched stories in this summer’s transfer window. While elite clubs in England and Italy continue to deliberate, Galatasaray is quietly positioning itself as a serious contender for the striker’s signature.
With a July 10 deadline looming, the clock is ticking — and fans across Nigeria and Turkey will be watching closely.
