Skip to content

Napoli’s firm response to Galatasaray: $82M or no deal for Victor Osimhen

Victor Osimhen (45) of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring a goal during the Turkish Super Lig week 10 football match between Galatasaray and Besiktas at RAMS Park in Istanbul Victor Osimhen (45) of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring a goal during the Turkish Super Lig week 10 football match between Galatasaray and Besiktas at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Türkiye, on October 28, 2024. (AA Photo)
By Selin Hacialioglu
Nov 5, 2024 4:13 PM

Galatasaray‘s decision to bring Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen on loan created significant buzz in global football.

The club is now pursuing his permanent transfer, but Napoli’s demands present a substantial hurdle: they want $82 million for the transfer, according to Sporting Director Giovanni Manna.

Napoli’s firm response to Galatasaray: $82M or no deal for Victor Osimhen
Nigerian defender Victor Osimhen, whom Galatasaray plans to recruit, arrives in Istanbul, Türkiye, Sept. 3, 2024. (AA Photo)

Napoli demands significant fee for Osimhen’s transfer

Manna said, “If Galatasaray does not pay the net fee of $82 million, they will not be able to keep Victor Osimhen.” He pointed out that several clubs are interested in Victor Osimhen, reinforcing Napoli’s aim to sell the player permanently.

Before loaning him to Galatasaray, Napoli had already reduced Victor Osimhen’s release clause from $141 million to $98 million for winter and to $82 million for the summer.

Victor Osimhen (45) of Galatasaray greets fans as he celebrates his team's victory in the Turkish Super Lig match against Fenerbahce at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul
Victor Osimhen (45) of Galatasaray greets fans as he celebrates his team’s victory in the Turkish Super Lig match against Fenerbahce at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye on Sept. 21, 2024. (AA Photo)

Dursun Ozbek mobilizes resources to fund Victor Osimhen’s transfer

Galatasaray President Dursun Ozbek emphasized his determination to secure Osimhen’s transfer despite the steep price. The club has started exploring various funding options and sponsorship contributions to gather the necessary amount.

Victor Osimhen is an important player for us this season, and we are proud to have brought him to Türkiye. We have time to consider the next steps in our club’s structuring.

Ozbek stated

President Ozbek has instructed the management to activate all club resources and partnerships to create a budget for an offer close to $55 million. This plan may include long-term payment arrangements and performance-based bonuses.

Napoli’s firm response to Galatasaray: $82M or no deal for Victor Osimhen
Albdulkerim Bardakci of Galatarasay celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Europa League match against Elfsborg at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Oct. 23, 2024. (AA Photo)

Victor Osimhen’s strong impact boosts Galatasaray’s drive for a permanent deal

Osimhen has delivered an impressive performance in Türkiye, scoring four goals and providing four assists in just seven matches. His contributions have further motivated Galatasaray to secure him.

Osimhen himself expressed his readiness, saying, “If the clubs agree, I am ready to sign.” Ozbek, committed to maintaining the effective partnership between Osimhen and Mauro Icardi, opposes the idea of Osimhen leaving during the winter transfer window.

Galatasaray continues discussions with Napoli and Osimhen’s representatives, aiming to convince the Italian club with their strategic offer. The upcoming months will reveal whether Galatasaray’s efforts and sponsorship backing can bring about one of the most significant transfers in Turkish football history.

Last Updated:  Nov 5, 2024 5:31 PM