Soccer
Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Copyright: IMAGO
Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has dismissed reports linking Victor Osimhen with an immediate move to Atlético Madrid, insisting that no official offer has arrived for the Nigerian striker, Soccernet.ng reports.
The transfer rumour gained momentum after reports in Spain and Turkey claimed Atlético Madrid had made a verbal offer worth €120 million for the Super Eagles star. The reports further suggested that Galatasaray rejected the huge proposal as they prepared for the 2026/27 campaign.
According to the speculation, Atlético manager Diego Simeone identified Osimhen as the perfect addition to his attack amid uncertainty surrounding the futures of Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth. The Nigerian’s combination of pace, physical strength, relentless pressing and finishing ability reportedly made him a priority target for the Spanish club.
However, Buruk has poured cold water on the claims.
“We haven’t received any such proposal. There’s nothing going on right now. Hopefully, he will continue his career at Galatasaray,” the Galatasaray manager said as per CumHuriyet.
Buruk reiterated that neither the player nor his representatives have indicated any desire to leave Istanbul this summer.
The Turkish champions remain determined to keep their star striker after his outstanding performances since arriving permanently from Napoli. Osimhen has become one of the most influential players in Turkish football, helping Galatasaray maintain their dominance at home while strengthening their ambitions in Europe.
Soccer Victor Osimhen set to remain in Istanbul
Galatasaray are confident that Victor Osimhen will still be on the club’s payroll by the time the 2026-27 season kicks off in August. That confidence is backed by a significant financial commitment. The club spent €75 million to complete Osimhen’s permanent transfer from Napoli, a deal that set a new Turkish Süper Lig transfer record. They are also prepared to continue supporting his reported €15 million net annual salary.
The 27-year-old remains a fan favourite in Istanbul and is viewed as the central figure in the club’s future plans. During his first full season as a permanent Galatasaray player, Osimhen produced 22 goals and eight assists in 32 appearances, playing a decisive role as the club secured a fourth consecutive Süper Lig title.
While clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Barcelona continue to monitor his situation, there has been no indication from Osimhen’s camp that he intends to force a move.
The former Lille and Napoli star is currently on vacation with Nigeria’s Super Eagles not participating at the ongoing 2026 World Cup in North America.
Imhonlamhen
Imhonlamhen is a football writer and editor at Soccernet.ng with over six years’ experience shaping its editorial voice. A lifelong Arsenal and Super Eagles fan, he combines engineering precision with training in journalism and digital media. He has covered four AFCONs and two Women’s AFCON tournaments, specialising in Super Eagles history and tracking Nigerian players worldwide, while keeping a close eye on the NPFL and emerging homegrown talents.
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