Osimhen to Galatasaray: Two Nigerians in top 10 most expensive signings in Super Lig

Super Eagles attacker Victor Osimhen has joined another Nigerian as the most expensive signing in Turkish Super Lig history following Galatasaray move, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen completed a permanent move from Napoli to Turkish champions Galatasaray, in a deal worth €75 million.

This transfer brings an end to a long-standing saga surrounding the Nigerian forward and makes him the most expensive signing in the history of the Turkish Süper Lig, joining Emmanuel Emenike in the top 10 ranking.

For more than two seasons, Osimhen’s future at Napoli had remained uncertain, with speculation linking him to several top European clubs.

While clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United showed interest at various stages, none could meet Napoli’s valuation or provide a concrete pathway for the striker’s next step.

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In contrast, Galatasaray, who initially took Osimhen on loan in September 2024, emerged as the only club willing to meet the financial and personal terms demanded by both player and club.

Is Osimhen The Most Expensive Signing In The Super Lig?

The Super Eagles attacker's €75 million transfer fee places him well ahead of previous Süper Lig signings and also sets a new benchmark in Turkish football.

The second most expensive deal remains Youssef En-Nesyri’s move to Fenerbahçe from Sevilla for €19.5 million, completed just a season prior.

Other signings in the Turkish topflight, per TransferMarkt, have included the likes of Nicolo Zaniolo, Mário Jardel, and Emmanuel Emenike, but none have come close to the magnitude of Osimhen’s transfer in terms of value.

 

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Osimhen's Success in Turkey Sparked the Permanent Move

Osimhen’s initial move to Galatasaray on loan in 2024 was met with scepticism in some quarters. However, the Nigerian forward quickly silenced his critics with a phenomenal campaign in the Turkish Süper Lig.

He scored 37 goals and provided seven assists in 41 appearances across all competitions, helping Galatasaray secure the league title and winning the Golden Boot in the process.

The 26-year-old spoke glowingly of his time in Istanbul and the overwhelming support he received from Galatasaray fans.

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His performances on the pitch and his strong off-field connection with the club played a significant role in his decision to make the move permanent, despite having long harboured dreams of playing in the English Premier League.

What the Move Means for Galatasaray and Turkish Football

Osimhen’s arrival is a major coup for Galatasaray and Turkish football at large. This move is expected to bolster their squad, reinforce their domestic dominance, and strengthen their ambition to compete at the highest level in European competitions.

From the Nigerian football scene, the deal also put the Süper Lig in the spotlight for more views and also served as a potential destination for Nigerian players looking for competitive football.