Victor Osimhen: Inside His Galatasaray Move and What’s Next for Nigeria’s Star Striker
Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen remains one of the most talked-about names in world football. From winning the Serie A title with Napoli to shocking fans with a loan switch to Turkish giants Galatasaray, his career trajectory has taken an exciting turn. As the 2024/25 season nears its conclusion, questions are mounting about where the Super Eagles talisman will play next season.
According to his agent George Gardi, who played a key role in orchestrating Victor Osimhen’s transfer to Galatasaray, there is no truth to recent reports linking the striker with a move to Saudi Arabia. Gardi confirmed that there were no talks with Al Hilal in January or at any point during the season.
“These claims are completely baseless. Victor made me a promise when he joined Galatasaray. He wouldn’t sign with any club before the season ends,” Gardi told Turkish outlet Milliyet.
Victor Osimhen’s Impact at Galatasaray
Since joining Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in September, Victor Osimhen has been nothing short of sensational. The Nigerian forward has scored 29 goals and provided six assists in all competitions. His presence has completely changed the complexion of Galatasaray’s attack and re-established them as title contenders in both the league and domestic cup.
In fact, Gardi described the striker as a game-changer:
“Victor Osimhen is perhaps the most iconic transfer in Turkish football history. He is 25 years old, at the peak of his career, and has a market value of €100 million.”
Galatasaray’s fans have embraced him with open arms, and Osimhen, in turn, has expressed joy playing under coach Okan Buruk, who immediately supported the move despite internal doubts.
How the Galatasaray Deal Happened
Victor Osimhen came close to joining Chelsea last summer. When those negotiations fell apart, Galatasaray moved quickly. Gardi revealed that Napoli initially asked for a €6–7 million loan fee, but he managed to conclude the transfer on a free loan — a remarkable piece of business.
“Osimhen is currently at Galatasaray due to his availability for transfer. He is a top player, a champion. He can play for any team he wants,” Gardi said.
Even within the club, not everyone was initially convinced. With Mauro Icardi and Michy Batshuayi already in the squad, some questioned the necessity of adding Osimhen. However, his performances have silenced all critics.
“When I explained this operation to Okan Buruk, he immediately grasped the magnitude of the issue and supported me so we could make progress.”
No Saudi Switch for Victor Osimhen
Contrary to media reports in Turkey and beyond, Victor Osimhen has not entered negotiations with Al Hilal or any Saudi Pro League club. His agent was clear:
“Despite receiving lucrative offers, he kept his word. With a player like Victor, something like ‘taking him somewhere’ is out of the question. The biggest clubs in the world want him.”
This statement further distances Osimhen from a lucrative Middle East move — at least for now. His ambition remains firmly rooted in European football.
Premier League Calling for Victor Osimhen
The future of Victor Osimhen could lie in England. Both Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly keen on signing him this summer. Arsenal have also entered the conversation, as they look to address their long-standing striker concerns.
Meanwhile, Juventus are interested in bringing Osimhen back to Serie A, but Napoli remain reluctant to sell to a direct rival. However, recent reports from Italy suggest that Napoli may lower their asking price from €75 million to facilitate a transfer to the Premier League.
This would be a strategic move to block a deal with Juventus while still capitalizing on the Nigerian’s immense market value.
Victor Osimhen’s Personal Commitment
What sets Victor Osimhen apart is his loyalty and focus. Despite multiple offers and rumors, he chose to honor his word to Galatasaray and his agent. Gardi praised this sense of integrity:
“Victor made me a promise. He wouldn’t sign with any club before the season ends. And indeed, despite receiving lucrative offers, he kept his word.”
Such discipline and professionalism underscore why Osimhen is not just a great player, but also a respected leader in every team he joins.
Trophies and Legacy
Having already clinched the Serie A title with Napoli in 2023, Victor Osimhen now stands on the verge of achieving a domestic double in Turkey. Galatasaray are leading the Turkish Super Lig and are into the final of the Turkish Cup.
Winning trophies in two major European leagues within two years would significantly enhance Osimhen’s legacy and cement his place among the top African footballers of his generation.
SUGGESTED FOR YOU
What’s Next for Victor Osimhen?
With the current campaign approaching its finale, all signs point to a busy summer for Victor Osimhen. His next move will likely define the next phase of his career. Whether it’s a return to Serie A, a Premier League adventure, or a possible new chapter in France or Germany, the decision will be made only after the season concludes.
His agent reiterated:
“He will make a decision about his future when this journey is complete.”
Final Thoughts: Victor Osimhen — Focused, Fierce, and Far from Finished
As the football world speculates about his next move, Victor Osimhen remains laser-focused on finishing the season strong with Galatasaray. His journey so far — from Nigeria to Italy to Turkey — has been anything but ordinary.
With integrity, talent, and a fierce hunger for success, Osimhen continues to climb football’s highest peaks. Whether it’s in England, back in Italy, or elsewhere in Europe, one thing is certain: Victor Osimhen is ready for the next big stage.
