Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen looks increasingly likely to continue his journey with Galatasaray, as the Turkish champions push to finalize a deal with his parent club, Napoli. The former African Footballer of the Year has reportedly agreed to personal terms with the Istanbul-based club.
Now, all that remains is for Napoli and Galatasaray to settle on a transfer fee that would make the move permanent. Osimhen enjoyed a standout season with Galatasaray during his loan spell, helping them clinch both the Turkish Super Lig and Cup titles. He was in sensational form, scoring 37 goals in all competitions and quickly becoming a fan favorite.
While Premier League giants Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United were initially linked with the Nigerian forward, those talks have gone quiet in recent weeks. Juventus also made a bid recently, but Napoli turned down the offer, signaling their firm stance on Osimhen’s value.
With other suitors stepping back, Galatasaray now appears to be leading the race to secure the prolific striker’s signature permanently.
Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju, who played at the 1994 FIFA World Cup and won the Africa Cup of Nations that same year, weighed in on Osimhen’s future. He believes the 26-year-old should remain in Turkey if Juventus cannot meet Napoli’s demands.
“I think in my own opinion, I would have loved him to move to Juventus, but if they cannot match his salary and the transfer fee that Napoli is asking for, then I think he should stay back at Galatasaray,” Adepoju said exclusively for Footy-Africa. “He has done well with the club and even won the league with them, so if Juventus cannot give what Napoli wants, then he should join Galatasaray.”
Adepoju also pointed to Osimhen’s growing popularity in Istanbul, noting that the fans already adore him and would welcome his return with open arms.
“The fans there love him, and he has spent a year there with a lot of success. I think he should continue there and have more success,” he said. “He is a good player and with Galatasaray, I believe they will also love to have him back. Once they can reach an agreement, he should join them, in my opinion,” Adepoju added.
As the summer transfer window unfolds, Galatasaray’s ambition and Osimhen’s stellar form might just combine to make the Nigerian striker one of the marquee signings of the new season in Turkish football.
