Galatasaray launch bold bid to beat Chelsea in race for Victor Osimhen
Galatasaray are reportedly preparing a significant offer to rival Chelsea in their pursuit of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. The Turkish club, eager to bolster their attacking options, is planning an ambitious move in the upcoming January transfer window, hoping to secure Osimhen’s signature and fend off interest from the Premier League club.
Turkish media outlet Sozcu reports that Galatasaray’s management sees an opportunity to negotiate a lower fee for Osimhen, whose valuation has varied across Europe.
While Italian sources have set the Napoli star’s price tag as high as €90 million, Galatasaray are said to believe they can reach an agreement closer to €70 million.
The Istanbul-based club reportedly aims to bring that fee down even further, potentially settling on a figure around €50 million to meet Osimhen’s release clause.
The reported transfer plan comes as Galatasaray looks to build on their recent domestic and European successes, targeting high-caliber players who can elevate the team’s profile and competitiveness.
Osimhen, with his prolific scoring record, is seen as a marquee signing who could make an immediate impact in both the Turkish Super Lig and the Europa League, where Galatasaray have been pushing for a deeper run.
The ambitious move, however, faces substantial competition from Chelsea, who are also eyeing the 24-year-old Nigerian international to strengthen their frontline.
Chelsea have been actively searching for a reliable goal scorer, and Osimhen’s technical abilities, combined with his speed and clinical finishing, make him a desirable option for the London club.
But with Galatasaray stepping up their interest, Chelsea may now need to act swiftly and decisively to avoid missing out on the highly sought-after forward.
Adding intrigue to the transfer saga, Osimhen recently hinted at his openness to a move to Galatasaray, a revelation that has given the Turkish side further motivation.
Although he remains under contract with Napoli, his potential availability has stirred excitement among Galatasaray fans, who would see the transfer as a major coup.
Osimhen’s impressive stats this season underscore his value on the pitch.
In seven appearances across the Turkish league and Europa League, he has scored four goals and provided three assists, solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s most effective strikers.
His form has attracted suitors across several leagues, and his dynamic playing style and adaptability make him well-suited for a variety of tactical systems.
While Galatasaray’s pursuit is ambitious, it’s not without precedent.
The club has previously succeeded in drawing high-profile players to Istanbul, banking on a combination of competitive offers and the appeal of a passionate fan base.
Nevertheless, the financial gap between Galatasaray’s reported budget and Napoli’s valuation of Osimhen presents a significant obstacle.
If Galatasaray were to secure Osimhen, it would represent a major statement in Turkish football and signal the club’s intent to compete with Europe’s elite.
However, Chelsea’s resources and established Premier League stature mean they remain formidable contenders in the race for Osimhen’s signature.
With January approaching, the coming weeks could see intensified negotiations, as both clubs aim to lure one of the continent’s top strikers to their ranks.
