The future of Nigerian international striker Victor Osimhen remains a prominent topic in the football transfer market. While lucrative propositions continue to surface, particularly from the Saudi Pro League, reports indicate that Osimhen is resolute in his preference for a permanent transfer to Turkish side Galatasaray, having reportedly rejected further overtures from Al-Hilal.
Negotiations between Napoli, Osimhen`s current club, and Galatasaray are understood to have advanced over the recent weekend. The potential transfer fee for the prolific forward is reported to be in the region of €75 million. However, securing the player`s signature at Galatasaray is contingent upon fulfilling Napoli`s specific financial requirements. The Italian club is seeking not only the full €75 million fee but also requires comprehensive financial guarantees, including a letter of credit, to ensure the transaction proceeds smoothly and reliably.
Despite the ongoing financial discussions between the clubs, Osimhen himself is reportedly confident that the move to Istanbul will ultimately materialise. His clear desire is to secure a permanent switch to Galatasaray, reportedly influenced by what has been described as a “prolific loan spell” in the city (a detail noted in the reporting, which some may find curious given his long-term status at Napoli). Regardless of the specifics of his recent association, his commitment appears to lie with making Istanbul his long-term footballing home.
This stance is maintained in the face of persistent interest from Saudi Arabia. Al-Hilal, known for its significant financial capabilities, has reportedly made renewed efforts through intermediaries to persuade Osimhen. Yet, these approaches have been met with the same refusal that saw the striker decline a reported offer of €30 million per year back in June. It seems the considerable financial allure of the Saudi league is, at least for now, less compelling than the prospect of a future with Galatasaray.
As the transfer window progresses, the focus remains on the intricate financial negotiations between Naples and Istanbul. Osimhen awaits, seemingly assured that the necessary guarantees can be arranged, thereby paving the way for his desired €75 million permanent transfer to Galatasaray and bringing an end to the repeated, and thus far unsuccessful, pursuits from Al-Hilal.
