Turkish champions Galatasaray have reportedly rejected a massive €125 million bid for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, underlining their determination to keep the Nigerian international despite growing interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
According to reports from Turkish outlet Forza Cimbom, the Istanbul giants wasted no time in dismissing the offer, having earlier turned down a €120 million proposal from Spanish side Atletico Madrid.
The development comes amid intense speculation surrounding Osimhen’s future, with Manchester United, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid all monitoring the 27-year-old ahead of the summer transfer window.
However, Galatasaray have made it clear that they are not prepared to let their prized striker leave cheaply and insist that any club hoping to sign him must meet their valuation.
The Turkish champions believe Osimhen’s performances since arriving at the club fully justify their stance.
The former Napoli forward has established himself as one of the most feared strikers in Europe, scoring an impressive 59 goals in 74 appearances for Galatasaray.
This season alone, the Nigerian star has contributed 15 league goals and five assists in 22 matches. He also made a significant impact in the UEFA Champions League, recording seven goals and three assists in 10 appearances before Galatasaray were knocked out by Liverpool in the Round of 16.
His consistency and influence have made him indispensable to the club’s ambitions both domestically and in Europe.
Galatasaray’s resolve to retain Osimhen has reportedly been strengthened by the expected departure of Argentine striker Mauro Icardi, whose contract expires at the end of June.
Club officials are said to be wary of losing both forwards in the same transfer window, a situation that could leave the Turkish champions short of attacking options as they seek to maintain their dominance in the Süper Lig and challenge more strongly in Europe next season.
In a bid to convince the Nigerian striker to remain in Istanbul, Galatasaray are reportedly prepared to hand him the captain’s armband as well as the club’s iconic No. 9 jersey, currently worn by Icardi.
The club believes such symbolic gestures would strengthen Osimhen’s emotional connection to Galatasaray and give him a leadership role that may not be readily available at clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal or Chelsea, where established hierarchies already exist.
Despite constant transfer rumours, Osimhen has repeatedly spoken positively about his experience in Turkey and has expressed his affection for the club and its supporters.
Nevertheless, interest from several European heavyweights means speculation over the Super Eagles striker’s future is expected to continue throughout the transfer window.
With Galatasaray rejecting bids worth over €120 million, the question remains: just how much will it take to prise Victor Osimhen away from Istanbul?
