Former Super Eagles forward John Utaka has shared his thoughts on ongoing speculation linking Galatasaray and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen with a move to Real Madrid this summer, Footynaija.com reports.
Osimhen’s impressive campaign in Turkey this season has put him on the radar of several top European clubs, with reports of a potential transfer to Real Madrid particularly gaining momentum recently and casting shadows over his long term future at RAMS Park.
However, despite the mounting transfer speculation, Osimhen has repeatedly spoken glowingly about life at Galatasaray, openly expressing his affection for the club and supporters while maintaining that he is happy in Turkey.
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Speaking on the possibility of a move to Real Madrid, Utaka admitted he would personally encourage Osimhen to take the next step in his career, although he stressed that any decision must suit both the player and the club.
“It all depends on the player,” Utaka said, per quotes revealed by Brila.
“This is a two-way conversation. I mean Osimhen needs to talk to the board, and then if the two parties agree, he might carry on. It all depends on if the player wants to leave or stay.
“Personally, I will plead with the player to go. But you also have to look at the football side. Is he going to benefit you financially and trophy-wise? If where he is going gives him the opportunity to win trophies, then he should go.”
If Jose Mourinho calls, Victor Osimhen has to answer
Real Madrid are in talks to appoint Jose Mourinho as their next manager and the Portuguese tactician reportedly wants Osimhen’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu to revitalize Los Blancos’ imbalanced star-studded front line.
Utaka believes joining the Spanish giants at the behest of Mourinho will be perfect for his younger compatriot, suggesting it will be a great avenue for him to win the biggest trophies.
“100 percent, if I am Osimhen I will go. Because Mourinho has seen something in him that made him request for Osimhen in the first place,” Utaka added.
“Osimhen, as we know, is someone that wants to win trophies at the end of the day. It will be a perfect move for him to go to Real Madrid if Mourinho signs and asks for him.
“It’s a good option because Osimhen can play anywhere. He played in Italy, France, Belgium, and now in Turkey so that shouldn’t be a problem.”
Galatasaray reportedly value Victor Osimhen between €100 million and €150 million, a price tag that could see the Nigerian striker become one of the most expensive African players in football history.
