Victor Osimhen’s anticipated switch to Galatasaray has triggered a lot of excitements in Istanbul, but not everyone is buying into the hype, Footynaija.com reports.
Galatasaray are closing in on a record-breaking transfer, having reportedly agreed a package worth €75 million to bring the Nigerian striker from Napoli to the Süper Lig. Osimhen is expected to arrive in Istanbul on Wednesday, with medicals set for Thursday, as the club prepares to unveil him in what would be the biggest signing in their history.
But while fans are counting down to his arrival, Turkish pundit and football commentator, Fatih Doğan, has voiced serious concerns about the deal, warning that the move could backfire if not handled properly.
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Doğan has sounded a cautionary note, highlighting both fitness concerns and the financial gamble involved.
Speaking with GS Gazete, Doğan described the Osimhen transfer as “a big investment and a big risk.” He admitted the Nigerian forward brings ambition and fire, but questioned his physical readiness for the new season.
“He has not prepared well for the season. He is not training with the team at all. He might be injured in that regard,” he warned.
Drawing comparisons with former Bundesliga star Mario Gomez, Doğan recalled how Beşiktaş had to rest Gomez for nearly six weeks before unleashing him. He suggested Galatasaray may need to take the same patient approach with Osimhen.
He also addressed the financial strategy behind the move, praising President Dursun Özbek’s handling of Galatasaray’s economic situation.
According to Doğan, “Galatasaray gained the opportunity to move freely in the Osimhen transfer process by leaving the Banks Association. There are some American companies that would insure the player for a reasonable 1-2 million euros.”
Still, he said manager Okan Buruk will face a tough job when the new season kicks off.
