The MARKET BOMBSHELL: Victor Osimhen Signs with Galatasaray
The Nigerian striker leaves Napoli on loan to join the reigning Süper Lig champions.
Victor Osimhen has arrived in Istanbul to join Galatasaray in a major transfer move.
The Nigerian striker comes on loan from Napoli, and according to Fabrizio Romano, the Turkish club will not have any obligation or option to buy him once the loan ends at the end of the season.
Osimhen arrived in Turkey in the early hours of the morning to a warm welcome from thousands of Galatasaray fans, excited about this high-profile last-minute addition.
"I can’t wait to see the fans in the stadium. I will give my best for them," Osimhen said upon arrival.
This is a significant signing for the reigning Süper Lig champions, who are adding the fourth most valuable center-forward in the world (valued at $110 million).
The only players ahead of him are Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé (both valued at $199 million) and Lautaro Martínez ($121 million).
Reunion with Mertens
A key figure in this transfer was Dries Mertens, Galatasaray player and former teammate of Osimhen at Napoli.
The Nigerian had been in contact with the Belgian and mentioned him upon arriving in Turkey: "He helped me a lot. I spoke with him before coming. I can’t wait to play with him. I look forward to playing with my other teammates."