Why Osimhen snubbed Napoli’s rivals in the January transfer window

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen reportedly turned down a move to Juventus before the January transfer window closed, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen has been linked with several top European clubs following his impressive performances with Napoli, including his crucial role in securing their first Serie A title in 33 years.

According to Nexus Sports, Napoli’s Serie A rivals had lined up the Nigerian star as a potential replacement for Dušan Vlahović, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal.

Meanwhile, Buch Laba, a close associate of Osimhen, revealed that the striker turned down multiple offers—including one from Juventus—to remain at Galatasaray for the rest of the season.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Goztepe at Rams Park Stadium on January 4, 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey. Photo by IMAGO

Despite strong interest from four clubs willing to trigger his £75 million release clause, the 25-year-old had previously made it clear he would not leave in January 2025.

“They are talking about January. I am here until the end of the season. I don’t know what Galatasaray and Napoli are talking about after that… We will talk when they tell me. This is a club I really like,” Osimhen stated, as quoted by Nexus Sports.

The Super Eagles forward joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli during the 2024 summer transfer window, and has since attracted interest from multiple European clubs. However, despite the prospect of returning to Serie A, Osimhen has chosen to honour his commitment to the Turkish giants.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Eyuspor at Rams Park Stadium on December 1, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. Photo by IMAGO

While Napoli still holds his contract and could consider negotiations in the summer, Osimhen remains focused on helping Galatasaray compete for silverware.

With the Europa League knockout rounds approaching, the Nigerian star will aim to make a significant impact and justify his decision to stay despite offers from top clubs.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

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