Slavia Prague and Galatasaray fail to agree on N19 billion deal for Nigerian defender

Slavia Prague have turned down a €12 million (approximately N19 billion) bid from Turkish giants Galatasaray for Nigerian centre-back Igoh Ogbu, reaffirming their determination to keep hold of one of their defensive stalwarts, Soccernet.football reports.

The 24-year-old, who joined Slavia in 2023 from Norwegian side Lillestrøm, has been an ever-present figure in the heart of their defence.

Poster BOY!!

Slavia Prague and former Nigeria U20 defender – IGOH OGBU.

One.Of.Our.Own. pic.twitter.com/49dlXfAX7d

— Ojora Babatunde (@ojbsports) July 17, 2024

His commanding performances have not gone unnoticed, with Galatasaray making a formal move to secure his services before the Turkish transfer window closes on February 11.

According to reports from infotbal.cz, Galatasaray’s offer—worth approximately N19 billion in Nigerian currency—was swiftly rebuffed by Slavia Prague. The Czech side are unwilling to weaken their squad midway through the season as they push for the Czech First League title and a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Slavia’s management sees Ogbu as a crucial part of their defensive setup and believe losing him at this stage could jeopardize their ambitions. Since arriving in Prague, the Super Eagles hopeful has made 82 appearances across all competitions, contributing four goal involvements while establishing himself as one of the league’s top defenders.

While Galatasaray are expected to strengthen their backline this season, their pursuit of Ogbu appears to have hit a dead end. However, with the summer transfer window looming, Slavia Prague are reportedly bracing for renewed interest, either from Galatasaray or other European suitors.