- Galatasaray have rejected a €125 million offer for Victor Osimhen
- Several top European clubs are still interested in signing the striker
- Osimhen has been in impressive form since joining the Turkish club
Galatasaray have reportedly rejected a €125 million bid for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, underlining the club’s determination to keep the Nigerian forward despite growing interest from top European clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to reports, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the Turkish champions turned down the offer after previously rejecting a €120 million proposal from Atletico Madrid, maintaining that Osimhen will only be sold if their valuation is met.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Federal Lawmaker Yaya Tongo Dies In Abuja Hospital
- Rep. Wale Raji Celebrates Alhaja Aduke Salimot Seriki on Birthday
- Nancy Isime Recalls Alex Ekubo’s Fearless Humor, Generosity at Late Actor’s Tribute
Manchester United, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are all said to be monitoring the 27-year-old, but Galatasaray remain unwilling to negotiate below their asking price.
The club believes Osimhen’s impressive performances fully justify his valuation. Since joining the Istanbul side, the former Napoli striker has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances, while also contributing five assists in 22 league matches this season. He added seven goals and three assists in 10 UEFA Champions League games before Galatasaray exited the competition at the hands of Liverpool in the Round of 16.
Galatasaray’s desire to retain the Nigerian has also been strengthened by the expected departure of Argentine striker Mauro Icardi when his contract expires at the end of June. Losing both forwards in the same transfer window would significantly weaken the club’s attacking options.
To convince Osimhen to remain in Istanbul, Galatasaray are reportedly prepared to hand him the captain’s armband and the famous No. 9 shirt, which is currently worn by Icardi.
Club officials believe offering Osimhen a leadership role and making him the face of the team could be more appealing than moves to clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal or Chelsea, where established senior players already occupy key leadership positions.
Although speculation over his future continues, Osimhen has repeatedly expressed his happiness at Galatasaray and has spoken positively about his experience with the Turkish champions. Nevertheless, interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs is expected to keep transfer rumours surrounding the Nigerian striker alive throughout the summer window.
FURTHER READING
