Former Arsenal and Besiktas midfielder Oğuzhan Özyakup has cast doubt on Galatasaray’s ability to complete a permanent move for Victor Osimhen, citing the financial demands involved, Footynaija.com reports.
Osimhen, on loan from Napoli, has been in sensational form for the Turkish giants, netting 29 goals and supplying six assists in just 33 appearances across all competitions.
His impact has sparked excitement among fans and officials, with Galatasaray reportedly keen to make his stay permanent when the summer transfer window opens.
Manchester United are willing to offer Victor Osimhen a mega contract as they look to secure his signature this summer.
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) April 18, 2025
(Source: Ali Naci Kukuc) pic.twitter.com/UpUl0Hutsn
However, speaking to Habersarikirmizi, Özyakup believes the Super Lig champions will struggle to fund what would be the most expensive transfer in Turkish football history.
“I don’t think Victor Osimhen will stay at Galatasaray,” said the former Turkey international. “Let’s say you buy him for €60m. With bonuses, that climbs to €70m. If his salary is €10m annually, the total cost rises to €120-130m. You can’t find that kind of money easily. You’d need Champions League success to justify it.”
Galatasaray, one of Turkey’s most successful and wealthy clubs, have publicly declared their intention to sign Osimhen permanently—stating that they only need a green light from the Nigerian striker to begin the financial process.
Yet Özyakup, who won three league titles with Besiktas and came through Arsenal’s youth academy, believes such a move is unrealistic.
“The Gulf clubs already understand the Turkish market,” he added. “If I were Osimhen, I’d rather play for Manchester United or PSG than remain in the Turkish league.”
Osimhen’s future remains one of the biggest talking points in Turkish and European football, with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Juventus among the top clubs reportedly monitoring his situation.
