As Victor Osimhen prepares for the Super Eagles’ upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda, the Nigerian international striker is expected to complete a loan move from Napoli to Turkish giants Galatasaray.
Osimhen, who has been the subject of transfer speculation throughout the summer, is reportedly on the verge of sealing a loan deal with Galatasaray after negotiations between Napoli and the Turkish club took an unexpected turn.
According to transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has approved the terms proposed by Galatasaray, with the deal set to be a straight loan.
The Turkish club will reportedly cover Osimhen’s entire salary during his stay.
Osimhen, who was left out of Napoli’s Serie A squad following the closure of the Italian transfer window, has given his consent to the move.
This has led Galatasaray to expedite their efforts to secure the 26-year-old striker’s services.
Italian media outlets, including Foot Italia, have reported that both clubs have finalized the details and conditions of the transfer.
Di Marzio added that only the official signatures and a medical examination are pending.
Late yesterday, reports emerged that Osimhen was en route to Istanbul, with Galatasaray having booked his flight after the former Lille striker agreed to the loan move.
Osimhen also posted a cryptic message on Instagram Stories—a blank image accompanied by an old Nigerian song by General Prince Adekunle & His Supersonic Sounds, titled ‘Awodi nfo soke.’
The song is often interpreted as a reflection of resilience and faith in overcoming challenges.
Napoli has agreed to let Osimhen leave on a free loan, as long as Galatasaray covers his €10 million salary.
Galatasaray’s interest in Osimhen aligns with their plan to switch to a 3-5-2 formation, potentially pairing the Nigerian with Mauro Icardi once he returns from injury in about a month.
This move offers Osimhen a chance to continue playing at a high level while also resolving the ongoing standoff between him and Napoli.
