Osimhen’s Summer Transfer Drama Comes to an End
Victor Osimhen’s name dominated the transfer rumor mill throughout the summer. Although there was significant interest, a permanent move away from Napoli didn’t come to fruition before the European transfer window closed last week. However, Turkish side Galatasaray took advantage of their extended transfer window, bringing Osimhen in on a season-long loan deal.
With the Turkish transfer window remaining open until mid-September, Galatasaray capitalized on the opportunity to secure the Nigerian striker after he was sidelined by Napoli’s coach, Antonio Conte. Osimhen, who was linked with Chelsea and Al-Ahli, couldn’t finalize a permanent transfer, but Galatasaray has now offered him a fresh start for the 2024/25 season.
No Permanent Clause, but January Exit Possible
Osimhen’s loan deal doesn’t include a clause for a permanent transfer, although there is a possibility for the forward to leave Galatasaray in January. Reports suggest his release clause has been lowered to €75 million, giving interested clubs a chance to secure his services during the winter transfer window.
The 25-year-old will don the No. 45 shirt for Galatasaray, with his debut expected after the international break. Fans could see him in action when Galatasaray face Rizespor in the Turkish Super Lig on September 14.
Galatasaray’s Opportunistic Move Amid Icardi’s Injury
After an injury sidelined Galatasaray’s striker Mauro Icardi, the Istanbul-based club seized the chance to sign Osimhen. With Turkey’s transfer window still open, Galatasaray worked quickly to finalize the loan. Osimhen’s move comes as a temporary solution after Napoli struggled to find a buyer willing to meet the club’s hefty transfer fee demands.
Osimhen, who is under contract with Napoli until June 2026, was signed for £65 million from Lille in 2020. Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis remained firm in his stance to command a high fee for the Nigerian striker, despite Conte not including him in his plans for the current season.
From Golden Boot Winner to Struggles at Napoli
Osimhen’s rise to prominence was cemented in the 2022/23 season, when he won the Serie A Golden Boot, helping Napoli claim their first league title in 33 years. Unfortunately, last season saw Osimhen face injuries, scoring just 15 league goals as Napoli’s title defense faltered, with the team dropping to a disappointing 10th place.
The arrival of Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea further complicated Osimhen’s situation at Napoli, where he found himself surplus to Conte’s requirements. Despite his stellar performances in the past, Osimhen struggled to replicate his form, and a transfer seemed imminent until the European transfer window closed without a permanent deal.
A Glimmer of Hope for Osimhen at Galatasaray
Osimhen’s loan to Galatasaray offers a much-needed fresh start for the 2023 African Footballer of the Year. Over his four seasons at Napoli, Osimhen scored an impressive 76 goals in 133 appearances, solidifying his status as one of Europe’s top strikers. Now, Galatasaray will be hoping Osimhen can bring his scoring prowess to Istanbul and fill the void left by Icardi’s injury.
As the Turkish transfer window remains open until September 13, Galatasaray is reportedly eyeing Manchester United midfielder Casemiro as their next potential signing, aiming to further strengthen their squad.
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