Victor Osimhen sets new record as most costly signing in Turkish football
Galatasaray Shatters Transfer Records with Victor Osimhen Signing
In a historic move for Turkish football, Galatasaray has secured the signing of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli for a record-breaking fee of €75 million. This transfer, the most expensive in the history of Turkish football, marks a significant step forward for the club as it aims to establish a global presence among the world's top football clubs.
The deal, which was finalised in the 2025 summer transfer window, makes Osimhen the third most expensive player in that window, following Liverpool's Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike. Osimhen's impressive performance during the 2022-23 season with Napoli, where he scored 31 goals in all competitions, played a crucial role in attracting Galatasaray.
Osimhen's previous loan spell with Galatasaray during the 2024 season was equally impressive, scoring 37 goals and providing 8 assists in 41 appearances, contributing significantly to the club's domestic league and cup double. His outstanding performance boosted his market value and made him an attractive prospect for Galatasaray.
The negotiations for Osimhen's transfer were complex, with Napoli initially pushing for additional clauses, such as a 20% future sale cut and a three-year ban on Osimhen joining any Italian club. However, Galatasaray managed to secure a 10% sell-on clause, a €40 million upfront fee, and €35 million in installments through 2026. The club also agreed to a two-year ban on Osimhen joining any Italian club.
Osimhen's contract with Galatasaray reflects his status as a top global striker. He signed a four-year deal starting the 2025-2026 season, with a net salary of €15 million per year, an annual €1 million loyalty bonus, and €5 million in income from image rights. This remuneration package positions Galatasaray as a major player outside Europe's traditional powerhouses.
The transfer has also had a significant impact on Galatasaray's squad value, which now stands at $364 million, surpassing the combined value of 13 other Super Lig teams that have never won the league. This investment in Osimhen signifies Galatasaray's ambition to compete with the world's top clubs and attract global attention.
The transfer saga was marked by a deterioration in Osimhen's relationship with Napoli, triggered by a video mocking a missed penalty. Despite receiving bigger offers elsewhere, Osimhen was reportedly ready to move to Galatasaray, turning down offers from other clubs to join the Turkish giants.
In summary, Victor Osimhen’s €75 million move to Galatasaray is a landmark transfer in Turkish football history, combining a record fee, lucrative player terms, and a backdrop of complex negotiations that highlight both the player's ambition and the club's growing global status. This transfer redefines Turkish football's market and positions Galatasaray as a major player outside Europe's traditional powerhouses.
Galatasaray's significant acquisition of Victor Osimhen, a Nigerian striker, for €75 million is a groundbreaking moment in Turkish football, particularly given that this transfer represents the most expensive in the history of the Turkish sports industry. As the football season in Istanbul continues, it will be interesting to see how Osimhen's return to Galatasaray after his impressive loan spell contributes to the club's success.
