Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has firmly denied reports that Victor Osimhen has reached an agreement to join Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, Soccernet.ng reports.
Turkish tactician Buruk insists the Nigerian striker remains happy in Istanbul and has not made any decision about his future.
Reports emerging earlier this week suggested that Osimhen was on the verge of sealing a blockbuster move to Al Hilal, with Sky Sports, as per Fotbolti, claiming an agreement had been reached between the Nigerian forward, the Saudi Pro League outfit and Napoli.
The 25-year-old striker, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has enjoyed a standout campaign, registering 36 goals and eight assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. His loan spell has seen his importance grow, particularly in light of Mauro Icardi’s injury, playing a pivotal role in the club's league title triumph.
Osimhen, who scored 31 goals in the 2022-23 season to help Napoli win their first Serie A title in over three decades, remains under contract with the Italian side until 2025, with a reported release clause of £63 million (€75m). Multiple Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal, have been linked with a move for the forward.
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Al Hilal are believed to have secured Osimhen's green light regarding a staggering offer — reportedly a three-year contract worth €120 million — should they get approval from the Saudi government to finalise the deal.
However, Buruk insists no such agreement exists and that the player is yet to make a decision.
“Osimhen will look at the conditions,” Buruk told I Just Spoke, via NTV Spor
“He is very happy here at Galatasaray. He is living the best days of his life. The player will decide about his future. He made an incredible contribution here. We need to respect him but we are hopeful that he will stay with us.
“He is a professional player. There are talks about it but Osimhen will make the choice. He will look at the conditions. The part about Osimhen agreeing with the Arabian side is not true.”
As speculation continues to swirl, Galatasaray remain hopeful of retaining their star forward as preparations begin for next season.
