Amid ongoing speculation about his future, Nigerian and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is expected to announce the club he will join this summer, with the announcement likely to come in April.
Premier League clubs’ interest in Osimhen
Osimhen, currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, is set to leave Napoli at the end of the current season. Premier League sides Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Newcastle are all reportedly monitoring the prolific forward, who has openly expressed a desire to play in England’s top flight.
According to BusinessDay, Serie A outfit Juventus are also said to be keeping tabs on the 26-year-old, as he prepares for what could be one of the summer’s most high-profile transfers.
Form in Turkey boosts market value
Osimhen has enjoyed a sensational season in Turkey, scoring 28 goals in 32 appearances for Galatasaray. His performances have helped the Istanbul club edge closer to the Turkish Super Lig title, further elevating his stock among Europe’s elite.
Despite his impact, Galatasaray’s hopes of keeping him permanently appear slim. There is no buy option included in the loan agreement with Napoli, who are reportedly demanding a fee of around £55.5 million for the striker.
Breakdown with Napoli paves way for exit
Osimhen previously led Napoli to their historic Serie A title in 2023, but his relationship with the Italian club has deteriorated since then. Napoli are now keen to cash in during the upcoming transfer window.
Though Galatasaray would love to retain him, club vice president Abdullah Kavukcu admitted they may be outgunned by richer suitors.
“Osimhen will announce his decision in April. At the moment, five of the world’s top clubs are interested in him, Kavukcu said as quoted by the Mirror.
“His arrival here was a dream—he came, and for now, he is playing with us. In January, there was talk of a transfer, but he stayed.
“He loves Galatasaray very much. Right now, he is the dream of all our rivals. Although we are focused on winning the title, we have not had direct discussions with Victor yet. His stay at Galatasaray is not as impossible as it may seem.”
Wage demands may be a hurdle
While Osimhen is admired across Europe, his expected wage demands could be a stumbling block. Reports suggest the Nigerian forward is seeking a salary in the region of £9 million per year—an amount that may be beyond what Manchester United and other suitors are willing to offer.
