Victor Osimhen still faces an uncertain future at Napoli. The 26-year-old striker was heavily linked with a move to the Premier League last summer, but a deal collapsed, so he joined Galatasaray on loan instead.
Victor Osimhen, who has recently entered the final year of his contract in Naples, featured 30 times in the Süper Lig this season, scoring 26 goals and providing five assists. Playing a key role in Okan Buruk’s squad, the Nigeria international helped the club secure a third successive title.
He also contributed to Galatasaray’s domestic double, netting a brace against Trabzonspor in the Turkish Cup final. Victor Osimhen was once considered a potential target for Manchester United, but he now seems poised to remain in Istanbul.
With that being said, the Manchester Evening News has compiled everything you need to know about Victor Osimhen and a potential move to Old Trafford.
Galatasaray steps up Osimhen pursuit
According to Sacha Tavolieri, Galatasaray have reached an agreement with Napoli to sign Victor Osimhen. The report claims that the Turkish giants have ‘never been so close’ to securing the Nigerian’s signature, with a €75m (£65m) payment plan in place. Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano has reported that negotiations are still ongoing between the two clubs. It’s said that Napoli recently sent a counter-proposal to Galatasaray, who are ready to make a decision on the ‘new conditions’.
Newcastle shortlist Osimhen and Nunez
According to German outlet Bild, Newcastle have shortlisted Victor Osimhen and Darwin Nunez as potential targets after dropping out of the race to sign Hugo Ekitike. The report claims that the Eintracht Frankfurt striker has decided to join Liverpool, who have indicated their willingness to pay his €100m (£85m) price tag. It’s said that the Premier League champions have already agreed on personal terms with Ekitike, who wasn’t convinced by a move to St. James’ Park. Bild reports that the Magpies have bid €80m (£69m) for the 23-year-old striker, but the offer was rejected.
Galatasaray boss shuts down Osimhen rumours
Towards the end of May, the Galatasaray boss provided an update on Osimhen’s future. In an interview with ‘I Just Spoke’, as quoted by Turkish outlet NTV Sport, Buruk dismissed rumours linking the striker with a move to Saudi Arabia. “Osimhen will look at the conditions,” he said. “He’s very happy here at Galatasaray. He’s living the best days of his life. The player will decide about his future, as he’s made an incredible contribution here. We need to respect him, but we are hopeful that he will stay with us.” Buruk added: “He’s a professional player. There are talks about it, but Osimhen will make the choice. He will look at the conditions. The part about Osimhen agreeing with the [Saudi] Arabian side is not true.”
