Osimhen to reject Chelsea, Manchester United advances to stay with Galatasaray in January window

Victor Osimhen || Imago

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Osimhen to reject Chelsea, Manchester United advances to stay with Galatasaray in January window

Ayoola Kelechi 21:41 - 17.11.2024

On-loan Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen is determined to fulfil his agreement with the Turkish club despite interest from Premier League giants

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is enjoying a prolific loan spell at Galatasaray and has reportedly decided to stay with the Turkish champions until the end of the season, despite interest from Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United.

The 25-year-old has thrived in Istanbul since joining on a surprising season-long loan from Napoli last summer, scoring eight goals in nine games across all competitions and building a strong rapport with the club’s fans and teammates.

Osimhen enjoying Galatasaray spell

Osimhen’s stint at Galatasaray came about after his relationship with Napoli soured and potential moves to Chelsea and Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli fell through.

Victor Osimhen at his menacing best for Galatasaray this season.

The extended Turkish transfer window allowed Galatasaray to swoop in, securing the forward’s services in a deal that has since paid dividends.

Sky Germany reports that Osimhen “loves the club, the city, and the fans” and has formed a close bond with former Napoli teammate Dries Mertens, who has become an important confidant during his time in Turkey.

How it is going... Victor Osimhen and Dries Mertens have rolled back their Napoli days in Turkey.

Despite a break clause in his loan agreement, Osimhen is said to have no intention of cutting his spell short, leaving Chelsea and Manchester United frustrated in their pursuit of the in-demand forward.

Galatasaray eye creative options for permanent deal

Osimhen’s impact at Galatasaray has been undeniable, and the club is eager to explore options to make his stay permanent.

Victor Osimhen was unplayable against Spurs. (Photo Credit: Galatasaray/X)

However, Napoli’s reported €75m (£63m) asking price poses a significant challenge for the Turkish side, given that the current Süper Lig transfer record stands at €20m.

Behind the scenes, Galatasaray officials are said to be working on creative solutions to retain Osimhen beyond his loan spell.

Victor Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in the summer of 2024 | Instagram/Galatasaray

The forward’s decision to remain until the summer provides them more time to negotiate, though the competition for his signature is expected to intensify once the transfer window reopens.