Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has expressed his deep affection for Galatasaray, saying the club will always hold a special place in his heart as he prepares to leave at the end of the 2024/25 season.
The forward, on loan from Napoli, made the emotional remark during an interview with Turkish outlet NTV, as reported by Insight Media Sports
“There are always rumours about me, but I live in the moment,” Osimhen said. “I’m enjoying everything right now. The fans have shown me so much love—not just to me, but also to my teammates and my family. Whatever happens next, Galatasaray will forever be in my heart.”
Osimhen’s loan move to the Turkish giants came after a dramatic deadline-day breakdown in a permanent transfer last summer. He had extended his contract with Napoli before the temporary switch, positioning the Italian club to dictate terms in any future deal.
The 25-year-old has been sensational in Turkey, scoring 29 goals and providing five assists in all competitions this season. With 21 goals in the Super Lig alone, he has played a crucial role in Galatasaray’s title challenge. His impressive tally of 17 goals in 2025 so far places him joint-third among Europe’s top scorers this calendar year, level with Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski and Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres.
As speculation swirls about his next move, Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has ruled out the possibility of Osimhen joining Serie A rivals Juventus. Speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss, De Laurentiis stated he would “never” do business with Juve, especially with clubs in the Premier League, France, and Saudi Arabia expressing interest.
Osimhen reportedly has a €75 million release clause for clubs outside Italy, while Serie A sides would have to negotiate directly with Napoli and likely pay a premium.
Meanwhile, former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel has voiced hope that Osimhen chooses Stamford Bridge over a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel said:
“I hope he doesn’t go there. That was my conversation with him in the summer—I told the kid, ‘Don’t go’. Saudi Arabia will always be there. Come to us (Chelsea), spend three or four seasons here.”
Despite the growing uncertainty over his future, Osimhen continues to deliver on the pitch. He recently found the back of the net against Samsunspor, helping Galatasaray maintain a narrow three-point lead at the top of the Turkish Super Lig.
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