Update: European Giants Struggle to Rival Galatasaray’s Massive Offer for Victor Osimhen Amid AFCON Concerns

 

Victor Osimhen’s name has been circulating heavily in football headlines this transfer window, and not without good reason. The Nigerian striker, known for his blistering pace, strength, and clinical finishing, has reportedly become the target of several European clubs after a phenomenal season with Galatasaray. However, despite growing interest from the continent's football powerhouses, one Turkish analyst is adamant that none of them can match what Galatasaray is putting on the table.

Devrim Zengi, a respected Turkish football analyst, has come forward with bold claims about Osimhen’s future. Speaking during an interview with Habersarikirmizi, Zengi stated that the financial package Galatasaray is offering the Nigerian international is beyond what any European club is prepared to pay. This, he claims, places the Istanbul-based club in pole position to retain one of their most valuable assets.

According to Zengi, Galatasaray’s offer is not just financially superior, it also aligns with Osimhen’s current personal preferences. He revealed that a potential move to the Middle East, particularly to Saudi Arabia where big contracts have lured several high-profile players in recent years, has been dismissed by Osimhen himself. More importantly, his family reportedly opposes the idea of such a move, strengthening the possibility that he will remain in Turkey.

The situation is further complicated by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. Scheduled to take place in early 2025, the tournament will see top African talents, including Osimhen, leave their respective clubs for national duty for about a month. Zengi believes this has caused several European clubs to pause their pursuit, reluctant to invest heavily in a player who could miss a significant portion of the season during a crucial period.

“The Africa Cup of Nations will take up about a month of the season,” Zengi explained. “Osimhen is expected to participate with Nigeria, and that could mean he misses four to five matches. Some clubs are cautious about signing players who will be unavailable for that long, especially when league and European fixtures are tightly packed.”

Even with that potential absence looming, Zengi remains confident that Galatasaray is not just hopeful, but almost certain of retaining Osimhen. Discussions about his future are reportedly at an advanced stage, and Zengi anticipates a final decision in the coming days. The analyst’s comments suggest that while the transfer market remains unpredictable, Osimhen’s path is becoming increasingly clear.

“He has no intention of heading to Saudi Arabia,” Zengi emphasized. “His family is not in support of that move either. As it stands, no European club has been able to match the salary package offered by Galatasaray, and that could be the deciding factor.”

Despite the insistence from Zengi and Galatasaray’s current strong position, interest from clubs like Liverpool continues to swirl. Reports suggest that the Premier League side is considering a bold move for the forward, though any approach will need to clear financial and logistical hurdles, including his potential absence during AFCON and the hefty wage demands.

Osimhen's performance last season with Galatasaray has only strengthened his appeal. His goal tally, consistency, and impact in big games have not gone unnoticed across Europe. However, the modern transfer landscape is shaped by more than on-field performance. Financial considerations, player preferences, international tournaments, and family influence all play crucial roles in determining where top talent lands.

As the summer transfer window progresses, Osimhen remains one of the marquee names on the market. Galatasaray appears determined to keep their star striker, even as interest grows. Whether the Turkish side can hold off the advances of European heavyweights will likely depend on more than just numbers. But if Zengi’s insights prove accurate, the Nigerian forward may well be donning the yellow and red jersey of Galatasaray for at least one more season.