Istanbul is buzzing with unprecedented excitement as Galatasaray SK officially announces the permanent signing of Nigerian superstar striker, Victor Osimhen, in a landmark transfer that has sent shockwaves throughout the football world. The deal, valued at a staggering €75 million, not only makes Osimhen the most expensive player in Galatasaray’s history but also shatters the Turkish Süper Lig’s all-time transfer record by a colossal margin.
The announcement brings to a close a transfer saga that has captivated fans for months, with Osimhen making his highly-anticipated return to the club after a sensational loan spell during the 2024-2025 season. During his temporary stay, the Nigerian international became an instant fan favorite, leading Galatasaray to a domestic double with his prolific goal-scoring prowess. He finished as the league’s top scorer with an impressive 26 goals and broke the record for most goals by a foreign player in a single Turkish season with a total of 37 goals in all competitions. His contribution was pivotal in securing Galatasaray’s 25th league title and the Turkish Cup.
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The immense financial investment from Galatasaray, which comfortably eclipses the previous Turkish transfer record of €20 million, is a clear statement of intent.
The club, which has struggled to make a significant impact in Europe in recent years, is now signaling its ambition to compete at the highest level.
By securing a player of Osimhen’s caliber, they are not only strengthening their domestic dominance but also positioning themselves for a deep run in the UEFA Champions League.
Osimhen’s decision to make his move permanent to Istanbul, despite significant and more financially lucrative offers from other top European clubs and even the Saudi Pro League, underscores the special connection he has forged with Galatasaray and its passionate fanbase. The club’s official announcement detailed the full financial terms of the deal, which includes a four-year contract, a net guaranteed salary of €15 million per season, a €1 million annual loyalty bonus, and €5 million per season in image rights payments.
The comprehensive package highlights the immense value Galatasaray places on the 26-year-old forward.
In an interview with the club’s official media, a visibly emotional Osimhen expressed his gratitude and delight at the move. “This is where I can express myself fully through my football and with everything that I am,” he stated. “I am truly grateful to everyone who worked to bring me here. I came because I love this place, and I feel good here.” He also singled out the unwavering support of the fans, who turned out in their thousands to give him a hero’s welcome upon his arrival at Atatürk Airport.
For Osimhen, this transfer represents a new chapter in a career that has seen him rise from a young talent at Lille to a Scudetto winner at Napoli, and now a record-breaking signing in Turkey. He leaves Napoli after four impactful seasons, where he was instrumental in their historic 2022-2023 Serie A title win.
His move to Galatasaray not only elevates the Turkish league’s profile but also puts the spotlight on a club with renewed ambition and a star player ready to deliver on the biggest stages.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Osimhen to see if he can replicate his previous success and lead Galatasaray to further glory. The weight of expectation is immense, but if his recent performances are anything to go by, Galatasaray’s investment is a gamble that is destined to pay off.
The transfer is a monumental moment for Turkish football, and with Osimhen at the helm, the future for Galatasaray looks brighter than ever.
