Former Italy international Roberto Pruzzo has claimed that Victor Osimhen will join Juventus next season, amid growing speculation over the Nigerian striker’s future, Soccernet.ng reports.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has enjoyed a prolific spell in Turkey, but reports linking him with a return to Serie A are gathering pace.
Speaking on Radio Radio via TMW, AS Roma Hall of Famer Pruzzo revealed that a reliable source close to the player had confirmed Osimhen’s move to Turin is all but sealed.
“I know that the next Juventus striker will be Osimhen. A reliable source, close to his circle, revealed it to me in Florence. They are sure that he will go to Turin next year,” said Pruzzo.
‼️ | Speaking to the microphones of “Radio Radio”, Roberto Pruzzo, former Roma centre forward: “Juventus will sign Osimhen. A reliable source, close to his entourage, revealed this to me in Florence. They are sure they will go to Turin next year”. #Juventus
— Juventus News Live (@juvenewslive) March 6, 2025
[TMW] pic.twitter.com/JVyfq3THXs
Osimhen, 26, endured a turbulent summer as speculation swirled over his future following a standout season with Napoli.
Despite interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Al-Ahli, a permanent move failed to materialise, with Galatasaray eventually securing his services on loan in September 2024.
Chelsea are among three big clubs interested in activating Victor Osimhen’s €75m release clause in the summer. pic.twitter.com/VMxXe516YB
— Frank Khalid OBE (@FrankKhalidUK) February 24, 2025
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The Nigerian international has since flourished in Turkey, scoring 22 goals and providing five assists in 28 matches across all competitions.
His tally includes 16 goals in 20 Super Lig games and six more strikes in the Europa League, making him one of the most lethal strikers in Europe this season.
Osimhen’s exploits have reignited interest from Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal, but Pruzzo's remarks suggest the player favours a return to Italy.
Juventus had been linked with Osimhen during the winter transfer window but recent reports in the Italian press suggested the Bianconeri had cooled their interest.
However, Pruzzo’s latest revelation appears to have reignited the transfer saga.
Napoli, who still own Osimhen’s rights until 2026, are reportedly demanding €70-75 million for the striker’s permanent transfer.
Galatasaray are also keen on retaining him, but the Turkish giants face stiff competition if Juventus follow through with their pursuit.
Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna recently acknowledged the club is working to avoid another drawn-out transfer saga like last summer.
“It is true that Victor Osimhen has a release clause in his contract. We are working to find a solution as soon as possible to avoid a late transfer like last summer,” Manna said.
Soccernet.ng verdict: Osimhen return to Italy unlikely
While Juventus remain one of the biggest Italian clubs with a big transfer pull for the world's biggest stars, they are not any closer to signing Osimhen.
The Super Eagles striker has made it clear is immediate focus is on inspiring Galatasaray to reclaim their Super Lig crown, leaving all decisions about his next destination till the summer.
A return to Italy, where he already won a historic Scudetto with Napoli, is unlikely to be top of his wishlist. Not when he is admired by clubs in England and France.
Interestingly, Osimhen has never hidden his desire to play in the English Premier League.
The former Lille and Wolfsburg striker is reportedly a boyhood Man United fan while he adores Chelsea heroes Didier Drogba and John Mikel Obi.
