Victor Osimhen’s next destination is drawing global attention as Napoli, Galatasaray, and Saudi side Al Hilal intensify negotiations to secure the striker’s signature before the summer transfer window closes. Following an outstanding loan spell at Galatasaray, where the Nigerian international scored 37 goals in 41 appearances, Osimhen is believed to have made clear his desire to remain in Istanbul. According to multiple sources close to the player, he has communicated this preference to all involved clubs, with Nigerian journalist Onyebuchi Onokala stating on Monday that Osimhen has given a firm “yes” to Galatasaray. Despite Napoli’s ongoing attempts to retain him, the striker is reportedly insistent on moving.
Galatasaray have already tabled a bid of €50 million plus €5 million in add-ons for the 25-year-old forward, though Napoli are holding out for the full €75 million release clause stipulated in his contract. Negotiations between both clubs are still active, with both sides aiming to resolve the deal before the end of the month. While Napoli remain hopeful of persuading Osimhen to stay, reports from Italy’s Il Mattino indicate that the Serie A club has reopened lines of communication with the striker in recent days. Head coach Antonio Conte is now said to be open to reintegrating him into the squad should a transfer not materialize. Osimhen, who is currently on holiday, is expected to report back to Napoli when the team resumes pre-season training on July 15, if no agreement is reached before then.
In the background, Al Hilal have also renewed efforts to sign Osimhen. The Saudi Pro League side, which failed to retain their domestic title and fell short in the Club World Cup, are actively rebuilding and view Osimhen as a marquee acquisition. French outlet L’Équipe reports that Al Hilal are prepared to activate the €75 million clause but are yet to reach personal terms with the player. The club is reportedly keeping options open, with Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović, Fenerbahçe’s Youssef En-Nesyri, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Al-Qadsiah being considered as alternatives.
Despite widespread interest, Osimhen appears firm in his stance, having ruled out a move to the Premier League. Reports from Corriere dello Sport suggest that while clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool expressed interest, the striker has prioritized Champions League football and a starring role at Galatasaray. Transfer expert Rudy Galetti noted in mid-June that United had fallen behind in the race and that Liverpool pulled back after exploring a potential deal involving Darwin Núñez and Federico Chiesa. Juventus, once considered a strong candidate, have since shifted focus and signed Jonathan David.
With the transfer window still open and speculation mounting, Osimhen’s future remains undecided. However, as things stand, Galatasaray appear to be in pole position, with Osimhen’s intentions and performances strongly aligned with the club’s ambitions. If no breakthrough occurs before Napoli’s pre-season begins, the striker may be required to return to Italy, leaving the door open for a final decision in the weeks ahead.
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