Galatasaray has officially begun talks with Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen to make his loan deal permanent after receiving formal permission from Italian club Napoli.

The 26-year-old Nigerian forward was a standout performer during his one-season loan in Turkey, scoring an impressive 36 goals in all competitions.

Osimhen also played a pivotal role in Galatasaray’s historic domestic double, as Okan Buruk’s men won both the Turkish Super Lig and Turkish Cup this season.

The Napoli loanee’s brilliance earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Golden Boot awards in the league, solidifying his status as a fan favourite among Galatasaray supporters, per WhoScored.

Osimhen’s dominant performances have not only put Galatasaray on a high but have also caught the attention of major clubs across Europe and beyond.

Talks begin with Napoli’s green light

In a positive development for the Turkish champions, Napoli has officially permitted Galatasaray to begin formal discussions with Osimhen regarding a permanent deal.

According to Forza Cimbom, respected Turkish football journalist Ugur Senpire says the 26-year-old Nigerian striker delayed his planned departure from Turkey after the green light from Napoli came through.

“I am conveying the information I received: Osimhen was going to go today but did not. Official permission was received from Naples for the meeting.

“The first meeting after the permission took place at the Point Hotel this evening. The meeting continued until 23.30,” Şenpire revealed.

Galatasaray hopes that their strong relationship with Osimhen, the success both parties achieved together, and the admiration he enjoys from fans will be enough to convince him to stay, even in the face of heavy competition.

European and Saudi clubs interested in Osimhen

While Galatasaray is keen on turning Osimhen’s loan into a permanent move, they face tough competition from within and outside Europe.

European giants, including Chelsea, Manchester United, and Juventus, have all been linked to the Nigerian striker, each prepared to lure him with massive offers and the appeal of elite-level football.

Adding to the mix, Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal have also entered the fray as reports suggest that the club has tabled a highly lucrative offer, reportedly worth three times what Osimhen currently earns in Turkey.

Victor Osimhen is one of most targeted strikers on Al Hilal’s radar and he’s offered; 🔵⚪️🇳🇬

🔹A 3-year contract until 2028
🔹Salary around €45m/year year.

Al Hilal are willing to pay Osimhen fee valued at €75m to Napoli but seeking green light from the player to proceed. pic.twitter.com/quX9P6biDJ

— Topskills Sports UK (@topskillsportuk) June 2, 2025

The financial muscle of the Saudi Pro League poses a serious threat to Galatasaray’s hopes of retaining their star man.

Despite these challenges, Galatasaray has not backed down as the Turkish club sees Osimhen as a long-term asset and has been working behind the scenes to secure his signature.