NIGERIA: Galatasaray Eye Osimhen Deal With Chinese Sponsorship Boost

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Galatasaray are taking bold steps to secure a historic deal for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, leveraging potential sponsorships from Chinese firms to fund the move.

Osimhen, currently on loan from Napoli, has been a revelation for the Turkish Süper Lig champions.

With 12 goals in 15 appearances, the 25-year-old has become a fan favorite, revitalising his career after a difficult period in Italy.

Despite strong interest from Chelsea and Al-Ahli in the summer, Osimhen shocked the football world by choosing Istanbul.

However, his loan stint has sparked hopes of a permanent deal, a move complicated by his €75m release clause – well beyond Galatasaray’s current financial muscle.

The club’s most expensive signing to date is Gabriel Sara, acquired for €18m from Norwich City last year.

According to Fanatik, Galatasaray are now working on finalising two major sponsorship agreements from Chinese corporations to finance the record-breaking transfer.

These sponsorships, if successful, could also help the club fend off fierce competition from Manchester United and Chelsea.

Osimhen’s stellar form hasn’t gone unnoticed in England.

Manchester United, under new head coach Ruben Amorim, view the Nigerian forward as a key target to address their ongoing attacking woes.

Both Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled for goals, leaving the Red Devils eager for a marquee signing to boost their Premier League campaign.

Chelsea, who failed to land Osimhen last summer, could reignite their pursuit, adding another layer of intrigue to the transfer saga.

Interestingly, both Galatasaray and Manchester United are also linked with PSG’s Randal Kolo Muani, who is reportedly available for transfer in January.