Victor Osimhen has moved quickly to calm the growing speculation surrounding his future after comments from Nigeria coach Eric Chelle triggered fresh transfer discussions across Europe, Footynaija reports.
The Super Eagles striker is again back in the transfer rumour mills barely a year after joining Galatasaray permanently, with several top clubs reportedly monitoring his situation. Interest from Chelsea and Arsenal has continued to dominate headlines, while other European heavyweights have also been linked with the Nigerian forward.
The latest round of rumours emerged after Chelle explained why Osimhen would not be part of Nigeria’s squad for upcoming friendly matches against Poland and Portugal. Speaking after the Super Eagles won the Unity Cup in London, the coach suggested the striker needed time to focus on issues connected to his club future.
Those remarks quickly fuelled suggestions that a major transfer could be nearing completion. However, Osimhen has now stepped in to shut down the speculation.
The 27-year-old revealed that he contacted Chelle directly to discuss the interview and insisted the coach’s words had been misunderstood.
Writing on Instagram, Osimhen said: “I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create any controversy.
“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him. He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.
“Thank you for your consistent support.”
Osimhen’s statement arrived shortly after Nigeria completed a successful Unity Cup campaign, ending with a convincing 3-0 victory over Jamaica in the final at The Valley in London.
Despite missing the June friendlies, the former Napoli striker remains a central figure in Chelle’s plans.
