Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian football sensation currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has expressed his deep affection for the Turkish club, declaring that it will “always remain in his heart.” His prolific goal-scoring form, which has seen him net 29 times across all competitions this season, including 21 goals in the Turkish Super Lig, has fueled Galatasaray’s title aspirations. Osimhen’s remarkable performance has also placed him among Europe’s top scorers, with 17 goals in 2025, level with the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Viktor Gyokeres. While acknowledging the constant transfer rumors swirling around him, Osimhen emphasized his focus on the present moment, enjoying the immense support from the Galatasaray fans, teammates, and his family. He assured that the best decision for all parties involved would be made regarding his future.
Osimhen’s journey to Galatasaray was somewhat unexpected. A lucrative move away from Napoli collapsed dramatically on deadline day last summer, leading to a loan arrangement with the Turkish giants. Crucially, he signed a contract extension with Napoli before the loan, giving the Italian club significant leverage in future transfer negotiations. This strategic move positions Napoli to command a higher fee for their prized asset, whose market value has undoubtedly soared due to his stellar performances in Turkey. The loan spell has provided Osimhen with consistent playing time and an opportunity to showcase his exceptional talent, further solidifying his status as one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers.
Meanwhile, back in Italy, Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has emphatically ruled out the possibility of Osimhen joining Serie A rivals Juventus. He stated unequivocally that he would “never” negotiate with Juventus for the Nigerian striker, particularly with strong interest emanating from the Premier League, France, and the increasingly lucrative Saudi Arabian league. This declaration underlines De Laurentiis’s determination to maximize Napoli’s return on their investment in Osimhen. With a release clause of €75m for clubs outside Italy, and the likelihood of a higher fee for Serie A clubs, Napoli stands to gain significantly from Osimhen’s eventual transfer.
The interest from the Saudi Pro League has raised concerns among some, including former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi. Obi has publicly urged Osimhen to resist the allure of Saudi Arabia’s riches and instead opt for a move to a top European club like Chelsea, where he can continue to develop his skills and compete at the highest level. Obi’s advice reflects a broader debate within football about the impact of Saudi Arabia’s aggressive recruitment strategy on the European game. While the financial rewards are undeniable, concerns remain about the sporting competitiveness and long-term career implications for players who choose to move to the Saudi league.
Amidst the swirling transfer speculation, Osimhen remains focused on his current responsibilities at Galatasaray. He recently scored against Samsunspor, contributing to Galatasaray’s efforts to maintain their three-point lead at the top of the Turkish Super Lig. This continued dedication to his current club underscores Osimhen’s professionalism and commitment to delivering success on the pitch, irrespective of the uncertainties surrounding his future. His consistent performances are a testament to his mental strength and ability to compartmentalize off-field distractions.
In summary, Victor Osimhen’s temporary stint at Galatasaray has been a resounding success, both for the player and the club. His prolific goal-scoring has propelled Galatasaray’s title challenge and elevated his status as a top-tier striker. While his future remains uncertain, with Napoli holding the reins of his next move, Osimhen’s performances have ensured that he will be a highly sought-after commodity in the upcoming transfer window. The interest from top European clubs and the increasingly attractive Saudi Arabian league underscores Osimhen’s value and sets the stage for a potentially record-breaking transfer. His heartfelt connection with Galatasaray fans, however, suggests that regardless of where he lands next, his time in Turkey will hold a special place in his career.
