Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian football sensation, received an extraordinary welcome from Galatasaray ultras upon his arrival in Istanbul, despite touching down at 4 a.m. The 25-year-old striker, who has been linked with several top European clubs and a potential move to Saudi Arabia, is now on the brink of completing a loan transfer from Serie A giants Napoli to the Turkish Super Lig.
Osimhen, who was heavily speculated to join Chelsea towards the end of the Premier League transfer window, has chosen to remain in Europe, taking on a new challenge with Galatasaray. The Turkish club confirmed the ongoing negotiations with Napoli, stating, “Official negotiations have begun with the football player and his club SSCN Napoli SPA regarding the temporary transfer of professional footballer Victor James Osimhen.”
The excitement surrounding Osimhen’s arrival was palpable as hundreds of Galatasaray fans defied the early morning hours to greet their potential new star. The streets of Istanbul were lit up with flares, and the atmosphere was electric as Osimhen waved and applauded his new supporters while being escorted through the city.
This move comes after a mixed season for Osimhen, who scored 15 goals in Serie A last year following an impressive 76 goals in 133 appearances for Napoli. His contributions were instrumental in Napoli’s 2022-23 title victory, but he now seeks to reignite the form that once made him one of the most coveted strikers in world football.
With Romelu Lukaku now filling the striker role at Napoli, Osimhen’s transfer to Galatasaray is set to provide him with a fresh start and a chance to reclaim his status as one of Europe’s top forwards.
