Napoli has rejected an initial €50 million bid plus €5 million in performance-related add-ons from Turkish giants Galatasaray for Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, insisting on a higher valuation before considering his departure.
The Super Eagles striker, 26, is reportedly keen on a return to Galatasaray, where he spent the previous season on loan and had an exceptional campaign. Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Monday that Osimhen is interested in making the move permanent but added that negotiations between the two clubs remain ongoing.
“Al Hilal remains involved in the race for Osimhen with a plan to pay his €75 million release clause at Napoli, but there is no agreement with the striker yet,” Romano added.
Osimhen’s impressive loan spell in Istanbul saw him net 37 goals and provide eight assists in 41 appearances across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in Galatasaray’s domestic double – clinching both the Turkish Super Lig and the Turkish Cup.
Galatasaray, emboldened by Osimhen’s previous success, has reportedly offered him a three-year contract running until the summer of 2028, with an option to extend by an additional year. The Turkish side views him as the ideal spearhead for their continued dominance in the domestic league and ambitions in European competitions.
Despite Osimhen’s clear preference, Napoli appears reluctant to let go of one of its most prized assets at what they consider a cut-rate fee.
The Italian side is holding out for a figure closer to the striker’s €75 million release clause, especially amid interest from Saudi Pro League outfit Al Hilal, who are said to be willing to meet the clause but are yet to secure Osimhen’s personal agreement.
Osimhen, who joined Napoli in 2020 from Lille, has endured an injury-plagued spell in Serie A but remains a highly rated striker on the European market. His performances during his loan in Turkey have reignited interest from multiple top-flight clubs, and his next move could define the peak years of his career.
For now, Galatasaray’s hopes rest on returning to the negotiation table with an improved bid that matches Napoli’s valuation. With the summer transfer window in full swing, the situation remains fluid and could escalate quickly depending on the offers on the table.
