Victor Osimhen transfer saga nears its end as Gala confirms ‘positive’ talks

Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen is on the verge of a landmark move to Galatasaray as the Turkish champions reach the concluding stage of talks with Napoli.

Osimhen during the summer transfer window was involved in an unusual transfer saga but eventually secured a loan move to Galatasaray in the closing stages. Tipped to join the big boys in Europe this summer, the Nigeria international has favoured a move back to Turkey where he’s adored.

Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has now confirmed that negotiations with Napoli for the striker are moving forward positively and the deal is expected to be concluded soon.

According to TRT Spor, Buruk stated that both parties are satisfied with the progress, with only minor details left to resolve.

Victor Osimhen reacts during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Rizespor. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

Reports indicate Galatasaray will pay €75 million (£65m/$87m) in total, including €40m (£35m/$47m) upfront and €35m (£30m/$41 m) payable by 2026. A clause prevents Osimhen from returning to Serie A in the next two years, with Napoli holding a 10 per cent sell-on clause.

Buruk stated that everything is going well regarding the Osimhen transfer, stating: “Everything regarding Osimhen is going positively. We’re nearing completion. We want it to be completed as soon as possible. The player’s side was already positive, and the talks with Napoli are also very positive. We hope it will be concluded soon. Our entire transfer situation was about Osimhen. We have a significant budget. What we can use this budget for is crucial. We’ve been waiting for that, and once this transfer is complete, we’ll have other thoughts.”

He also addressed the club’s approach to reinforcing the goalkeeping position after losing long-serving shot stopper Fernando Muslera.

Regarding the goalkeeper transfer, Buruk said: “We are very clear about the goalkeeper issue; we will bring in a player. We have a very good goalkeeper in Gunay. Jankat also performed very well in the friendly matches. We want to add another goalkeeper to our squad and address our shortcomings. There will be positions we are considering, but we will have to let go of players. We will be considering transfers, but right now, our priorities are Osimhen and the goalkeeper.”

Osimhen is set to arrive in Istanbul for his official unveiling, signing a four-year contract. Once complete, Galatasaray will pivot to finalising a deal for a new goalkeeper, with Manchester City’s Ederson tipped to join and negotiations at an advanced stage.

Galatasaray will kickoff their season on August 8, with Champions League qualifiers looming. They will also face stiff competition from the likes of Fenerbache in their quest to retain the league title.