Victor Osimhen Transfer Saga Ends: Galatasaray Pull Off Blockbuster Deal Despite Saudi Millions and Premier League Temptations
Well, well, well, Victor Osimhen has finally made up his mind, and no, he’s not off to Saudi Arabia to swim in oil money. Nor is he headed to the Premier League for a late-summer transfer twist. Instead, he’s chosen love, loyalty, and loud Istanbul welcomes.
Galatasaray have officially signed Osimhen on a permanent deal from Napoli, pulling off a masterclass in negotiation after weeks of back-and-forth with Antonio Conte’s side. And yes, it’s that Conte, the man who probably would’ve preferred Osimhen staying put in Naples with a tactical role the size of Mount Vesuvius.
But the Nigerian striker had other plans.
After a jaw-dropping loan season in 2024-25, where he casually banged in 37 goals in 41 games for Gala, Osimhen has decided to make Istanbul his footballing home. The Turkish champions have wrapped up the deal for €40 million up front, with another €35 million to be paid next year. Napoli also get a 10% sell-on clause, plus one interesting clause: Galatasaray can’t sell Osimhen to an Italian club for the next two years.
He’s reportedly flying in on Tuesday and is set for one of those “block-the-airport” type unveilings. A proper “historic welcome,” according to Turkish reports. You know how they do it in Istanbul, flares, chaos, chants, and probably someone climbing a lamppost.
Osimhen’s Deal: Big Money, But Not the Biggest Money
Now, here’s where it gets juicy.
Osimhen turned down a €160 million contract from Saudi Arabia, yes, one hundred and sixty million, just to return to Galatasaray. Let that sink in. He also brushed off interest from Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle. But here’s the kicker: none of those clubs were willing to match his wage expectations, and Osimhen, quite frankly, wasn’t in the mood for pay cuts.
Galatasaray, though? They said, “Say no more.”
The 26-year-old will now sign a four-year contract and pocket €18 million per season. Not Saudi-level cash, but enough to keep the fridge stocked and the Bugatti polished.
From Serie A Star to Süper Lig Legend?
It’s a major statement of intent from Galatasaray, and arguably one of the biggest coups in Turkish football history. Osimhen is still in his prime, still a world-class striker, and still a nightmare for defenders. Now, he’s theirs, permanently.
Saudi tried, the Premier League dreamed, but in the end, Galatasaray won the war.
And Istanbul? It’s about to erupt all over again.
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