In a firm and unambiguous statement, Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek has put an end to swirling rumors regarding the future of star striker Victor Osimhen. Despite intensifying speculation linking the Nigerian forward with a summer move to European giants Real Madrid or Barcelona, Özbek insisted that the club’s stance has not changed—Osimhen is staying.
Speaking to HT Spor, Özbek made it clear that Galatasaray, the reigning Turkish Süper Lig champions, have no intention of entertaining any offers for the 27-year-old.
“We are not considering selling Osimhen. He is a crucial player for Galatasaray,” Özbek said. “Putting a price on someone you don’t intend to sell is like counting your chickens before they hatch. That is not something we have in mind.”
He added with pride: “Osimhen is making the second generation of Galatasaray fans happy.”
Osimhen initially joined the Yellow-Reds on loan from Napoli in 2024. That move was made permanent last summer, and he has since become the focal point of Okan Buruk’s attack.
In the 2024/25 season, the powerful striker bagged 26 goals and four assists in 30 league appearances, helping Galatasaray secure a domestic double.
He also finished as the league’s top scorer, further cementing his reputation as one of the world’s finest centre-forwards.
This season, Osimhen has continued to deliver, scoring 22 goals and providing eight assists in 33 matches across all competitions. His efforts were instrumental in Galatasaray retaining the Süper Lig title and reaching the UEFA Champions League round of 16.
Meanwhile, Osimhen is set to rejoin the Super Eagles after missing Nigeria’s friendlies against Iran and Jordan in March. Head coach Éric Chelle named him in the squad for next month’s international fixtures against Poland and Portugal, marking his eagerly awaited return to the international scene.
