Soccer
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray SK warms up. Copyright: ImagoxBurakxBasturkx
Galatasaray have taken a major step in their bid to convince Victor Osimhen to remain in Istanbul by targeting Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde in what could become one of the biggest transfers in Turkish football history, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Record Turkish champions are desperate to retain the services of the Super Eagles striker amid continued interest from Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Saudi Pro League clubs following another prolific campaign.
The club hierarchy have insisted that they intend to build a squad capable of competing beyond the Super Lig, with the first start evident last season with their deep run in the UEFA Champions League, and their recent dealings in the transfer market suggest those promises are beginning to materialise.
Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek and members of the board have now turned their attention towards securing the signature of Real Madrid star Federico Valverde, a move that would send a strong message to Osimhen regarding the club’s ambitions.
Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
Soccer Galatasaray eye Federico Valverde to keep Victor Osimhen
Turkish outlet HaberGo claims Galatasaray have identified the Uruguay international as their next marquee target after the Victor Osimhen operation.
The report states that the Istanbul giants have begun exploring the financial means that will make a move for the 27-year-old possible despite his enormous €90m market value.
While Valverde remains contracted to Real Madrid until 2029, Galatasaray are monitoring developments at the Santiago Bernabeu and assessing whether there could be an opening for negotiations.
The move aligns with previous reports from transfer insider Burhan Can Terzi, who revealed that Galatasaray had promised Osimhen that the squad would become significantly stronger ahead of next season.
Club commentator Levent Tüzemen also claimed that the Super Eagles forward had received assurances that elite additions would be made to improve the team’s chances in the UEFA Champions League.
Valverde’s arrival would certainly fit that description.
The former Club Atlético Penarol midfielder has established himself as one of the world’s most complete midfielders, winning multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles with Real Madrid.
Adding a player of his calibre would not only elevate Galatasaray’s midfield but could also convince Osimhen that the club possesses the ambition to compete beyond domestic dominance. Additionally, Okan Buruk’s side have also agreed a deal to bring in Nigeria-eligible French midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu.
🚨🟡🔴 Galatasaray are completing Lesley Ugochukwu deal, here we go!
Agreement in principle with Burnley for loan move with buy option clause to become mandatory under certain conditions.
Total package slightly under €30m fee.
Update powered by @ExtrabetTR10. pic.twitter.com/f43DKMCQmr
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 10, 2026
The Turkish giants have already shown their determination to retain the Nigerian by rejecting offers ranging from €120 million to €125 million for the striker.
With Osimhen yet to make a final decision on his future, Galatasaray’s pursuit of a global superstar such as Valverde could prove to be a decisive factor in persuading the Super Eagles star to continue his journey in Istanbul.
Adefolahan Guerreiro
Adefolahan is a multilingual CAF-Accredited sports journalist and football writer whose work spans outlets like Soccernet Nigeria, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.
With a sharp eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and global perspective.
Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross-cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.
His portfolio includes interviews with top Nigerian stars like Finidi George, Junior Lokosa, Sikiru Alimi, Sodiq Ismaila, and Abraham Onahi Ogbu.
A devoted Borussia Dortmund fan, Adefolahan thrives on the emotion and rhythm of the beautiful game. Away from work, he’s a sci-fi enthusiast and series lover who enjoys exploring how sport, storytelling, and culture collide.
Read MoreAdefolahan Guerreiro