Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has arrived Turkey to complete a loan move from Napoli to Galatasaray, Afrosport reports.
The 25-year-old had been a subject of a transfer tussle between Premier League club Chelsea and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, but the deals failed to materialise as transfer terms were not met before the transfer deadline.
After agreeing personal terms with Galatasaray on Monday night, the former Lille man jetted out on a private flight to Istanbul, where he was warmly welcomed by fans of the club.
The Turkish Super Lig club also confirmed that discussions are in progress for the reigning African Footballer of the year to join their fold. Their statement read: “Official communication from Galatasaray SK:
“Official negotiations have begun with the football player and his club SSCN Napoli SPA regarding the temporary transfer of Professional Footballer Victor James Osimhen.
“Respectfully announced to the public.”
📌 Official communication from Galatasaray SK:
Official negotiations have begun with the football player and his club SSCN Napoli SPA regarding the temporary transfer of Professional Footballer Victor James Osimhen.
Respectfully announced to the public. pic.twitter.com/lGW4t8J4Sm
— Galatasaray EN (@Galatasaray) September 2, 2024
Osimhen is expected to put pen to paper on Tuesday after Galatasaray and Napoli reached a compromise, with the player also giving his consent.
The Nigerian forward put forward some of his own terms on Monday before signing a one-year contract extension with Napoli until 2027.
The prolific forwards new release clause will be €75 million, and as per agreement between the three parties, he will be eligible to leave Turkey in January if any suitor comes for his signature.
Osimhen, who was also courted by Paris Saint-Germain has scored 76 goals in 133 games for Napoli and played a key role in their 2022-23 Serie A title win, their first in 33 years, finishing the campaign with 26 goals to become the first African to win the Golden Boot in the Italian top-flight.
