Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has turned down a bid from Turkish club Galatasaray, despite their readiness to activate his €75 million release clause and offer a substantial wage package.
Osimhen’s decision, first reported by Gazzetta dello Sport and relayed by multiple European outlets, signals his continued focus on a potential move to the English Premier League, where he is said to have long harboured ambitions of playing.
“There is no agreement between his desires and reality,” the Gazzetta report noted, referencing Osimhen’s preference for the Premier League over other options currently available to him.
The 26-year-old forward recently completed a high-scoring loan spell at Galatasaray, netting 37 goals across competitions. However, despite his prolific form, Napoli have shown no interest in reintegrating him into the squad ahead of the new season. The Serie A side is reportedly waiting for formal offers from clubs outside Italy.
Manchester United are understood to be one of the clubs monitoring Osimhen’s situation. According to The People’s Person, the Premier League side continues to view Osimhen as a serious transfer target, though financial constraints — including his €12 million annual wage demand — remain a major stumbling block.
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Reports from Corriere del Mezzogiorno suggest that United still maintain appeal for Osimhen despite not qualifying for European competitions next season. The club’s stature and visibility in the global football market are believed to be influential factors.
Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal have reportedly submitted a contract offer valued at €40 million per year. But Osimhen, according to Il Napolista, has yet to accept, with sources indicating he remains focused on securing a move to England.
Napoli’s €75 million release clause, active until 15 July, remains central to any potential deal. While Galatasaray were reportedly prepared to pay that amount “without hesitation,” no Premier League club has yet tabled a formal offer.
As of now, Osimhen has returned to Naples following the expiration of his loan, but his long-term future remains unresolved. With the clause’s expiration approaching, interested clubs have less than two weeks to meet Napoli’s asking price.
If no bidding war materialises, the club may be forced to reassess the player’s valuation.
Osimhen joined Napoli in 2020 and played a key role in the club’s 2022/2023 Scudetto-winning campaign.
His next move is expected to define the next phase of his career.
The Guardian
