Report: Victor Osimhen to exit Europe after Galatasaray loan

Super Eagles and Galatasaray forward, Victor James Osimhen, might end up in the Saudi Pro League when his loan spell with the Turkish Super Lïg side expires, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 25-year-old striker was linked with a move to Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain during the last transfer window, but Napoli were unwilling to lower their demands for a fee of €130m. While there was interest from the Saudi league for the Nigerian striker, the ex-LOSC Lille man chose to remain in Europe, joining Galatasaray on loan.

While Enzo Maresca’s side still remain keen on bringing Osimhen to Stamford Bridge, the Napoli loanee made it clear that he’d see out his loan spell in Turkïye before making another move.

As per Spanish outlet, Fichajes, it is likely Osimhen will head to Saudi Arabia at the end of this season when his loan with Galatasaray comes to an end.

A return to Napoli is not on the cards for the 2023 CAF Player of the Year, as the Italian side are doing well under Antonio Conte, with Romelu Lukaku leading the frontline. The club will also prefer to make sales to Saudi league teams in the upcoming summer transfer market, hoping to secure a significant fee for his transfer.

According to the report, the European market does not seem a likely option for Osimhen’s long-term future, and it is Saudi Arabia that could offer the ideal conditions for his next step in football.

The interest of Saudi clubs in Osimhen is part of their strategy to attract top figures and strengthen the competitiveness of their league. With considerable purchasing power, the Saudi teams have no problems with sorting out Napoli and Osimhen’s financial demands.

In the meantime, the striker continues to enjoy a blossom attacking partnership with Mauro Icardi in Okan Buruk’s team.