Victor Osimhen has finally concluded his long-anticipated transfer saga by securing a four-month loan move to Turkish giants Galatasaray from Napoli. The deal, completed on Tuesday, makes him the sixth Nigerian player to wear the iconic Cimbom jersey, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Osimhen’s departure from Italy was one of the most highly discussed stories of the summer transfer window. Despite signing a new contract with Napoli as recently as December 2023, the Super Eagles striker requested a move away from the club, sparking widespread speculation.
Having joined Napoli from Lille in 2020, Osimhen quickly proved his immense talent. His standout performances helped the Partenopei clinch their first Serie A title in over three decades. Scoring 26 goals during the 2022/23 season, Osimhen also claimed the prestigious Serie A top scorer award, further cementing his status as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards.
Over the past three seasons, Osimhen has consistently drawn the attention of some of Europe’s top clubs, with Chelsea, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Liverpool among those closely monitoring his progress. His preferred destination was Chelsea, but Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli also made a lucrative bid on the final day of the transfer window.
Ultimately, the 25-year-old chose to embark on a new journey in Turkey. Upon his arrival on Monday night, he was greeted with a warm reception by thousands of enthusiastic Galatasaray supporters, eager to see the Nigerian striker don the club’s colours.
With his future settled, at least until January, Osimhen will now focus on adapting to his new environment. The striker is hopeful of replicating the form that saw Napoli crowned Italian champions last season. His debut for Galatasaray is expected shortly after the international break, with the club set to face Rizespor on September 15.
In joining the Turkish side, Osimhen follows in the footsteps of five other Nigerian players who have previously represented Galatasaray. The first Nigerian to play for the club was retired striker Dominic Iorfa, who joined in 1992. Iorfa, who earned 21 caps for Nigeria, had a brief stint at the club, scoring three goals in nine appearances before leaving for Peterborough United.
It wasn’t until 2018 that another Nigerian joined the Cimbom. Henry Onyekuru, the most successful Nigerian to play for the club, arrived from Everton. During his time at Galatasaray, Onyekuru scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists in 71 appearances, helping the team secure the Turkish Super Lig and League Cup titles.
Valentine Ozornwafor became the third Nigerian to join Galatasaray in 2019 after being signed from NPFL side Enyimba. Despite high expectations, Ozornwafor struggled to make an impact in Turkey, featuring just once for the club in three years. The defender spent the majority of his time away on loan.
The 2020 season saw two more Nigerians, Oghenekaro Etebo and Jesse Sekidika, join the club. Etebo, on loan from Stoke City, made 29 appearances during his single season with Galatasaray, while Sekidika featured in 19 games and netted once.
Now, with Osimhen in their ranks, Galatasaray fans can look forward to the latest chapter in the club’s history with a Nigerian player leading the attack.
Source: punchng.com
