Nigerian football star Victor Osimhen has made a significant move, joining Turkish club Galatasaray on a one-year loan from Italian side Napoli. The transfer, finalized on Wednesday, sees the 25-year-old forward head to Istanbul for the 2024-25 season, with the deal set to conclude in June 2025.
Galatasaray has announced that they will pay €6 million (approximately $6.6 million) in salary for Osimhen during this period. This strategic loan deal reflects Galatasaray’s commitment to bolstering their squad with one of Africa’s premier talents.
Napoli has also confirmed the loan move and revealed that they have agreed with Osimhen on an option to extend his contract until 2027. This move highlights Napoli’s ongoing investment in their star player, even as he temporarily shifts to another club.
Osimhen, whose market value is estimated at €100 million, was instrumental in Napoli’s Serie A triumph in 2023, marking their first Scudetto since 1990. His impressive performance included 76 goals in 133 appearances for Napoli between 2020 and 2024. Before his stint at Napoli, Osimhen played for French club Lille, where he made a significant impact.
In addition to his club success, Osimhen has been a key figure for the Nigerian national team, scoring 21 goals in 35 appearances. This loan to Galatasaray not only reflects his individual talent but also highlights the growing influence of African players in European football.