Napoli and Nigeria’s Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen, officially signed with Turkish Super Lig club Galatasaray on Wednesday.
Osimhen’s move followed a lengthy and complicated attempt to leave Napoli during the 2024 summer transfer window after a fallout with the Italian Serie A side.
The Super Eagles striker had been linked with potential transfers to Chelsea FC and Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli, but neither materialized. Al Ahli had even made an offer of £60 million (approximately N141 billion) to entice Osimhen to the Saudi Pro League. However, the Nigerian striker was keen on staying in Europe.
After other negotiations fell through, Osimhen decided to part ways with his agent, Roberto Calenda, and personally initiated talks with Galatasaray. The Turkish club ultimately agreed to a loan deal with Napoli for Osimhen’s services.
There is no purchase option or obligation attached to the loan, meaning Osimhen is set to return to Napoli in June 2025 after completing one season with Galatasaray. He signed the official contract with Galatasaray today.
Osimhen also requested to wear the number 45 jersey at Galatasaray and has successfully completed his medical examination.
“Our new signing, Victor Osimhen, will wear the number 45 jersey at Galatasaray. An agreement has been reached with professional footballer Victor James Osimhen and his club SSC Napoli SPA for the temporary transfer of the player at no cost.
The footballer will receive a net seasonal salary of 6,000,000 euros for the 2024-2025 season. This is respectfully announced to the public,” the club shared via X (formerly Twitter).
