Galatasaray signal strong intent to keep Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen after title-winning campaign

Galatasaray’s vice-president has made a bold declaration about the club’s plans to retain Victor Osimhen beyond the end of his loan spell, following the Nigerian striker’s prolific season in Istanbul.

Osimhen, on loan from Napoli, has delivered a sensational campaign for the Turkish giants, scoring 36 goals and providing eight assists in 40 appearances.

His contributions were instrumental in securing Galatasaray’s 25th Turkish Super Lig title—a milestone that earns the club a prestigious fifth star on its crest.

Riding the wave of championship celebrations, vice-president Abdullah Kavukcu reaffirmed Galatasaray’s commitment to keeping Osimhen, even if it means making a major financial commitment.

“We told him, ‘If you want to stay, we are ready to pay your contract and salary.’ He loves Turkey very much. However, there are realities. The situation will become clearer towards the end of the season. He needs to get his head back in order, but I believe in him,” Kavukcu told Turkish outlet Fanatik.

The club’s openness to negotiating a permanent deal reflects the high regard in which Osimhen is held after a season in which he emerged as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards.

His form has naturally sparked wider interest, particularly from within Turkey.

One of the clubs reportedly monitoring the situation is fierce city rival Fenerbahçe, now under the leadership of José Mourinho.

Their interest could complicate Galatasaray’s efforts to secure Osimhen’s services permanently.

However, Kavukcu appeared unfazed by the looming competition and questioned Fenerbahçe’s recruitment strategy.

“Usually, he is interested in the players we select. We make an offer first, and then Fenerbahçe makes it,” he remarked, before issuing a clear message about Osimhen’s potential decision. “Osimhen has a very different character. I really don’t think he would prefer Fenerbahçe.”

While the final decision may rest with Osimhen and Napoli, Galatasaray’s public stance underscores their determination to build on this season’s success with the Nigerian striker at the heart of their future plans.

With the summer transfer window approaching, the saga is far from over, but the Turkish champions have made their intentions unmistakably clear.