Galatasaray, one of Turkey’s top football clubs, has reached an agreement with Italian club Napoli to bring Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen to Istanbul on a season-long loan. This development comes as the Turkish transfer window nears its close.
Osimhen, who has been in excellent form for Napoli, became the subject of transfer rumors after a disagreement with the club regarding a failed move to Saudi Arabia and Chelsea on the transfer deadline day.
Prominent football journalist Gianluca Di Marzio reported that negotiations between Napoli and Galatasaray are progressing, with all parties aiming to finalize the deal quickly.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed these reports on Monday, stating that the loan agreement does not include an option to buy the Nigerian international permanently. Romano tweeted, “Galatasaray have agreed to cover €9-10 million as the salary of Victor Osimhen until the end of the season. The loan deal with Napoli does NOT include any buy option or obligation clause. Gala’s delegation is set to meet with Osimhen in Napoli in the coming hours for the final green light to the move.”
With transfer windows in the top five European leagues now closed, Turkey remains one of the few markets where clubs can still make late signings. Galatasaray is looking to capitalize on this window of opportunity.
Napoli’s decision to leave Osimhen out of their squad has led to speculation about his future, and the club seems keen to keep him sidelined until his transfer situation is resolved. This stance is understandable given Napoli’s high ambitions for the Serie A title this season.
Galatasaray’s urgency to bring in a striker has increased following an injury to Mauro Icardi, the Argentine forward who has been instrumental in their attack. Icardi’s absence has left a void, prompting Galatasaray to consider Osimhen as a strong option to bolster their front line. The club is reportedly considering a switch to a 3-5-2 formation, which would allow both Icardi and Osimhen to play together once Icardi is fit again.
Securing Osimhen would be a significant achievement for Galatasaray. At 24, he is one of Europe’s most sought-after talents, known for his powerful style, clinical finishing, and ability to lead the attack. Napoli’s high asking price has previously deterred permanent bids, but a loan deal might suit all parties at this time.
Interestingly, despite previous interest, Saudi Arabian clubs have seemingly withdrawn from the chase for Osimhen. Clubs like Al-Ahli, who had been linked with the Nigerian forward, have opted out, indicating they are already well-stocked in the striker department.
With the Turkish transfer window set to close on September 13, Galatasaray is racing against the clock to finalize Osimhen’s loan. The club’s management is working tirelessly to complete the deal, recognizing that adding a player of Osimhen’s caliber could significantly boost their domestic and European prospects.
If the deal is finalized, it will not only enhance Galatasaray’s attacking options but also send a strong signal to their competitors in Turkey and across Europe.
The Victor Osimhen transfer saga has been one of the most discussed stories of the summer. From potential moves to top clubs in England, Spain, and Saudi Arabia, to now being linked with Galatasaray, Osimhen’s future has been a subject of intense speculation.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Istanbul to see if Galatasaray can pull off one of the most high-profile signings of the summer transfer window.
