Turkish giants Galatasaray and Italian Serie A club Napoli have finalized the financial terms for the permanent transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, according to prominent Turkish sports analyst Yağız Sabuncuoğlu. The agreement, reported via Sabuncuoğlu’s social media account on Thursday, outlines a €75 million deal, with €40 million to be paid immediately and the balance settled through installments.
The breakthrough follows days of negotiations after Napoli initially rejected an earlier proposal from Galatasaray. Sabuncuoğlu emphasized the clubs’ alignment on payment structures and bank guarantees, indicating the final stages of the transfer process. “Galatasaray is very close to signing Victor Osimhen,” he wrote, underscoring the striker’s anticipated return to Istanbul.
Osimhen, 25, spent the majority of the 2023-24 season on loan at Galatasaray, where his prolific form saw him score 37 goals in all competitions. His performance played a pivotal role in securing the Süper Lig title for the club, reigniting their interest in a long-term commitment. Napoli, meanwhile, appears set to part ways with the forward after his limited impact in Italy, where injuries and squad dynamics hampered his consistency.
The proposed deal marks a significant investment for Galatasaray, reflecting their confidence in Osimhen’s ability to replicate last season’s success. For Napoli, the transfer offers financial flexibility as they reshape their roster under new management. While neither club has issued an official statement, the reported terms align with broader market trends of structured payments for high-value transfers, particularly involving players with fluctuating valuations.
Osimhen’s potential permanent move highlights the growing influence of Turkish clubs in competing for elite talent, despite financial disparities with Europe’s top leagues. His prior familiarity with Galatasaray’s system and fanbase could expedite his integration, bolstering the team’s aspirations in domestic and European competitions next season. Further updates are expected as both clubs finalize contractual details in the coming days.
