Osimhen reveals talks with Lookman and Onyedika as Galatasaray plan big transfer push

Victor Osimhen has revealed he is personally trying to persuade his Super Eagles teammates Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika to join him at Galatasaray, Soccernet.ng reports.

Lookman and Onyedika are widely believed to be top on the transfer agenda at Galatasaray as the Turkish giants step up their plans to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season.

The Istanbul club are believed to be eager to add quality and depth as they chase domestic honours and aim to go deeper in European competition, and both Nigerian internationals have emerged as serious targets.

Speaking after Galatasaray’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, Osimhen admitted that he has already held informal talks with both players during international duty. All three helped Nigeria win bronze at the just-concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. 

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What Osimhen said about Lookman and Onyedika

“I spoke with Onyedika during the Africa Cup of Nations. I also spoke with Lookman during the matches we played for the World Cup,” Osimhen was quoted as saying by Futboo.

“I told them about the Galatasaray fans, how big a club we are, and the beauty of the country. They are adults. They will make their own decisions.”

The former Napoli striker, who has quickly become one of Galatasaray’s leading figures, did not hide his enthusiasm about the prospect of being reunited with his international teammates in Istanbul.

He believes their arrival would not only raise the quality of the squad but also excite the supporters.

“Their arrival would be good for our club, our players, and our fans,” Osimhen added. “Onyedika is a very good player. He plays very fluently. If he comes here, he will contribute a lot to us.

“He is a very talented player. I am trying to convince both of them. I would like them to come to one of the biggest clubs in the world and play with us.”

Why Lookman, Onyedika fit Galatasaray’s plans

Behind Osimhen’s public charm offensive lies a clear sporting logic. Galatasaray are seeking to refresh and reinforce key areas of their team as the season enters its decisive phase, and both Lookman and Onyedika would address specific needs.

Onyedika has been a central figure for Club Brugge, earning praise for his energy, ball-winning ability and tactical discipline in midfield. At 24, he is widely seen as a player ready for the next step, and reports suggest he is keen to test himself in a bigger European league as he continues to develop his game.

Lookman’s situation is different but equally intriguing. The forward is said to be open to leaving Atalanta after two turbulent summer transfer windows in which he failed to secure a move away from Bergamo. Despite his undeniable quality and proven impact at both club and international level, his future in Italy remains uncertain.

Two established Nigeria internationals, both in their prime, both familiar with Osimhen, and both capable of making an immediate impact would take Galatasaray to the next level.

The Turkish giants are on course to retain their Super Lig title but more quality needs to be added to fulfil their dreams of reaching the latter stages of the UEFA Champions League.