What’s the truth about Galatasaray’s interest in Taiwo Awoniyi?

Super Eagles attacker, Taiwo Awoniyi, has been linked with a move to follow in the footsteps of his countryman, Victor Osimhen, at Galatasaray, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen easily adjusted to life at Galatasaray where he scored 37 goals in 41 appearances. With no sign of a return to the club, many believe a new Nigerian—Awoniyi—will continue from where he left off.

As rumours swirl about Nigerian stars joining Turkish giants Galatasaray this summer, Nigerian football insider, Buchi Laba, has shut down the noise.

“The last Nigerian player Galatasaray had serious interest in I was aware of was Taiwo Awoniyi. Not possible now because of the serious injury he suffered. All other Nigerian names mentioned are all false,” said Laba wrote on his X (formerly Twitter).

What Happened to Awoniyi?

In an earlier report by Soccernet.ng, the Nottingham Forest striker suffered a horrific abdominal injury in May after a collision during a Premier League game.

He reportedly underwent emergency surgery and was placed in an induced coma during recovery. While he is on the road to recovery, any potential transfer to Galatasaray—or any club—is now on hold indefinitely.

Awoniyi had impressed during the 2023/24 season despite injuries, scoring key goals to help Forest survive relegation.

His ability has made him a natural fit for Turkish football, and Galatasaray reportedly monitored him closely before his unfortunate injury. Osimhen's successful loan spell at Galatasaray last season sparked an increase in fans betting on Turkish football matches from Nigeria.

Are Other Nigerian Players Headed to Galatasaray?

Not likely. Despite ongoing reports linking Christantus Uche and other Nigerian talents to the Istanbul-based club, Buchi Laba insists the rumours are untrue.

“I’m very sorry, Galatasaray have no interest in Nigerian midfielder Chrisantus Uche. He’s not on their transfer list. Center midfield is not the position Galatasaray are focused on. Instead they’re looking to promote players from the academy,” he emphasised.

This clarification comes as Galatasaray continues their aggressive recruitment drive ahead of the 2025–26 campaign, with targets from Europe and South America. However, there’s currently no confirmed approach or deal involving any other Nigerian player.