Galatasaray joins race for Osimhen's signature, ready to bid €50 million

• Galatasaray are ready to secure Victor Osimhen’s permanent transfer in January despite Chelsea’s interest
• The Turkish club plans a €50 million bid, supported by a sponsor, hoping to convince Napoli to release the Nigerian forward
• Osimhen has thrived on loan in Istanbul, contributing significantly to Galatasaray’s league campaign

Galatasaray are preparing to shake up the January transfer window with a not-so-surprising move for Nigeria’s star forward Victor Osimhen. 

While Chelsea has long been linked with the 25-year-old striker, the Turkish champions are now looking to secure a permanent deal to keep Osimhen in Istanbul, a city where he has quickly won the hearts of fans.

Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli earlier in September after his much-speculated summer transfer failed to materialise. Initially, the Nigeria international was not prioritising a move to Turkey, yet he has integrated seamlessly into the squad. His impressive record of four goals and three assists in just seven appearances has not only kept Galatasaray at the top of the Super Lig standings but also put him on the radar of top clubs, including Chelsea and Saudi Pro League side Al Ahly.

Despite his success, Galatasaray faces a major financial challenge. Osimhen’s release clause, initially reduced to €75 million when he submitted a transfer request last transfer window is expected to increase to €90 million in January, according to sources. This hike could hinder the Turkish side’s aspirations, especially as their management will be able to muster only €50 million for a bid, reportedly supported by a sponsor. However, Galatasaray hopes this offer might still convince Napoli.

Osimhen himself seems content in Istanbul, having recently stated his intention to remain until the season’s end, 

“I will be in Galatasaray until the end of the season,” he said, assuring fans of his commitment. 

His connection with Galatasaray supporters has grown over the last two months, with the club’s faithful chanting his name during matches and fans acknowledging his role as a key figure in their title defence.

Galatasaray’s ambition doesn’t end with a one-season loan; they reportedly aim to offer Osimhen a five-year contract if Napoli agrees to a permanent transfer. Yet, the financial aspect remains complex, as the club works on structuring a feasible offer that can fend off interest from other suitors.

Mikel Obi discloses plan to lure Osimhen to Stamford Bridge

Previously, TheRadar reported that as the summer transfer window drew to a close, speculation surrounding Victor Osimhen's future continued to intensify. 

The Napoli striker, who has requested to leave the club, is heavily linked with a potential transfer to Chelsea. The deal could involve Romelu Lukaku moving in the opposite direction. In a concerted effort to bring the Nigerian star to Stamford Bridge, former Chelsea legends Didier Drogba and John Obi Mikel have personally reached out to Osimhen.