The biggest and most expensive transfer in Galatasaray's history is now a reality
Victor Osimhen has signs for Galatasaray in a permanent transfer for 75 millions euros from Nápoli.
Turkish champions Galatasaray have completed the permanent transfer of Napoli's Nigerian international forward Victor Osimhen. It is a fact that marathon negotiations had been held between the two clubs' executives, while it should not escape our attention that Osimhen had a spectacular loan spell at the Turkish team in the 2024-25 season where the Nigerian "beastly" forward stole the show with his goals. The 26-year-old Osimhen scored 37 goals and shared 8 assists in 41 games. He was essentially the symbol in the firing line of his team, including of course the Turkish Super League, the Turkish Cup and UEFA competitions.
His impeccable finishing, physical presence and relentless work ethic have won him admiration from fans and journalists alike. This has intensified the Galatasaray management's efforts to secure his services permanently.
The deal and Yilmaz Burak
The deal marks the end of protracted negotiations between the two clubs and sees Galatasaray secure one of its top targets.
Negotiations began immediately after the end of the season, as Galatasaray proceeded to activate the
€75 million release clause
included in Osimhen's contract with Napoli.
The clause was only valid until the first half of July 2025, "forcing" the Galatasaray management to work against time. While both parties agreed on the overall value of the transfer, talks have stalled over the payment structure.
Napoli demanded strong financial guarantees and insisted on a fixed payment schedule before finalizing the deal. After several weeks of intense talks and logistical maneuvering, the deal was completed on Monday, with all terms agreed.
Terms of the agreement:
The Turks will therefore pay the following amounts to Napoli:
• 40,000,000 euros immediately
• 35,000,000 euros in one year
• 5,000,000 euros in bonuses based on his goals
• 10% resale percentage
• A clause that does not allow Galatasaray to sell him to an Italian team for the next 2 years
On the side of Galatasaray, the club has offered Osimhen a 4-year contract that will be valid until the summer of 2029.
The international forward will earn approximately 16 million euros per year, which makes him one of the highest-paid footballers not only in Turkey but also in the wider region.
The financial terms underline Galatasaray's commitment to building a competitive team under coach Okan Buruk, who played a key role in securing the Nigerian in the long term.
Loan
Osimhen's influence during his loan spell was undeniable. He was the top scorer in the Super League, leading Galatasaray to the title with crucial goals and dynamic performances. Beyond what he did on the pitch, Osimhen quickly became a fan favourite at the Istanbul club.
His spirited celebrations, passionate play and interactions with the fans made him an instant hero-worshipper.
Galatasaray fans rallied around him and as speculation swirled about his future, the club's supporters took to social media to campaign for his permanent signature.
Historic reception
Now that the deal has been completed, the anticipation is at its peak. Galatasaray fans are reportedly planning a historic reception at Istanbul airport.
The club is also holding a grand unveiling ceremony, which is expected to attract huge crowds and media attention.
The mood among the fans is celebratory, with many seeing Osimhen's signing as a turning point for the club's modern era. Strategically, the transfer is seen as a win for all parties involved.
Good luck in Europe
Club president Dursun Özbek is determined to do everything in his power to further strengthen Galatasaray, as he wants to see the team advance as far as possible in the UEFA Champions League, beyond defending the title. He has already made advances towards Inter's Turkish international midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu, but executive chairman Bebe Marotta wants to keep him at the Nerazzurri. So he recently turned to Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan, and things seem easier here...
Manos Staramopoulos
Journalist and Analyst of International Football and Affairs
Chief Editor English Zone of Discoveryfootball.com
Athens (Greece)
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