Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen was greeted by a throng of excited Galatasaray fans who stayed late into the night to welcome the striker as he arrived in Istanbul following the completion of a loan deal from Napoli. The loan marks a new chapter in Osimhen’s career after a summer of transfer drama.
Osimhen, who was named the African Footballer of the Year, joined the Turkish side on a one-year loan after Napoli and Galatasaray reached an agreement for his services. The deal, valued at around €9-10 million, includes no buy option or obligation clause, making it a straightforward loan arrangement.
The move comes after Osimhen’s failed attempts to secure transfers to either Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia or Premier League side Chelsea. Additionally, the arrival of Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku at Napoli meant Osimhen faced the prospect of going four months without active football. The loan to Galatasaray offers the Nigerian star the chance to continue playing at a high level while keeping his options open for the future.
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As part of the agreement, Osimhen successfully negotiated a reduction in his release clause at Napoli from €130 million to €75 million, with a break clause for January in case top clubs approach him for a move during the winter transfer window.
Upon his arrival at the club, Osimhen joined the passionate Galatasaray supporters in celebration, further endearing himself to the fan base. The striker is expected to be officially unveiled by the club soon.
The move to Galatasaray is seen as an opportunity for Osimhen to maintain his form and visibility on the European stage while waiting for a potential transfer to one of the continent’s top clubs in the near future.