Soccer
Nigeria international John Ogu has thrown his full support behind fellow Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen, suggesting the Galatasaray forward could score over 50 goals in a season if he joins a club like Barcelona or Arsenal, Soccernet.ng reports.
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Osimhen remains one of Europe’s most anticipated transfers.
After a blistering loan spell at Galatasaray where he scored 31 goals and registered eight assists in just 36 appearances —
averaging a goal involvement every 72 minutes — the 26-year-old’s next destination is a hot topic of conversation.
Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid have been credited with strong interest in Osimhen, while Premier League heavyweights Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United are reportedly monitoring his situation closely. Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus have also been mentioned among his suitors.
Despite his prolific scoring records in Ligue 1, Serie A, and most recently the Turkish Super Lig, some observers remain uncertain about whether Osimhen can immediately adapt to the physicality and pace of the Premier League or La Liga.
Former France international William Gallas, who played for both Chelsea and Arsenal, has expressed concern over Osimhen’s ability to hit the ground running in England.
“I think Victor Osimhen can become a star in the Premier League, he has the right profile,” Gallas said as per the Daily Star.
“He can stretch play and stretch the backlines. Another attacker can run into the space he makes, and he could be useful for any club in the Premier League.”
However, Gallas suggested Osimhen, like a young Ronaldo, may need time to adjust.
“He’s always learning, but at the same time, how long will he need to adapt to a new situation? We’ve seen foreign players before, it’s often difficult for them in the first season.”
“Even (Cristiano) Ronaldo, in his first season (at United), he wasn’t the Ronaldo we know now, but in the second season there were signs.”
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“No lies” – John Ogu agrees Victor Osimhen will score 50 goals at Barcelona or Arsenal
However, that view is not shared by those close to the striker.
Osimhen’s associate, Buchi Laba, took to social media to defend the forward’s capabilities.
“If Victor Osimhen joins a club like Barcelona or Arsenal and is fully fit for the full season, he’s going to score 50+ goals and I’m not joking,” Buchi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
John Ogu, who helped the Super Eagles win bronze at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, endorsed Buchi’s opinion. “You no lie Buchi,” Ogu replied, indicating his full agreement.
Meanwhile, Manchester United remain one of the most prominent clubs linked with a move for Osimhen, especially as they seek to bolster their attack following a mixed season for Rasmus Hojlund.
Despite earlier reports suggesting Osimhen was seeking a bumper payday — potentially over £300,000-per-week — transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has clarified that the Nigerian is willing to accept a package worth under £200,000-per-week.
“He just wants his current salary (around €12 million net annually) to be respected, nothing different,” Romano told Givemesport.
That figure would fall well below what some of United’s current stars earn, including Mason Mount, who reportedly takes home £250,000-per-week.
This could ease concerns from INEOS, Manchester United’s new co-owners, who are eager to streamline the club’s wage structure.
Osimhen’s potential arrival would mark a significant statement of intent by any top club.
As United also weigh up alternative options like Viktor Gyökeres, Patrik Schick, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Dusan Vlahovic, all eyes remain on how this high-stakes summer saga will unfold.
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