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Victor Osimhen’s transfer from Napoli to Galatasaray is nearing official confirmation, with reports indicating the Nigerian striker has already been assigned kit number 45 PeakNews Online reports.
The Super Eagles star, widely regarded as one of Europe’s top forwards, is poised to begin a new chapter in Turkey following a summer filled with transfer drama. Osimhen is set to join Galatasaray on a season-long loan and was greeted by jubilant fans upon his arrival in Istanbul.
Thousands of supporters took to the streets to welcome the Nigerian forward, who had been facing uncertainty at Napoli after a tumultuous off-season.
Ahead of the official announcement, Galatasaray has already started selling Osimhen’s jerseys, with the striker confirmed to wear the number 45 for the Turkish champions, according to *Tutto Napoli*.
This is a significant departure from his iconic number 9 jersey at Napoli, where he was the club’s top scorer. His former number was expected to go to Romelu Lukaku, Napoli’s latest signing but he declined it and instead took 11 out of respect for the Nigerian striker.
Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray follows a summer transfer window marked by speculation. He was linked to both Al Ahli and Chelsea, with Al Ahli reportedly offering £67.3 million for the forward. However, the deal collapsed, and Chelsea failed to meet his wage demands, leading to his exclusion from Napoli’s Serie A squad.
Galatasaray swooped in with a loan offer, agreeing to cover Osimhen’s €10 million annual salary. The Turkish transfer window remains open until September 13, allowing the club to finalize the deal.
Reports also suggest Osimhen has negotiated a break clause in his contract, allowing him to leave in January if certain clubs submit offers. Additionally, the forward is said to have requested Napoli lower his release clause from €130 million to €75 million, potentially paving the way for a permanent transfer in the future.
Since joining Napoli in 2020 for a club-record £65.6 million, Osimhen has scored 76 goals in 133 appearances, including 31 goals in the 2022/23 season, helping the Italian side secure the Serie A title.
