‘I will score and have them shout my name’ – Osimhen vows to send Galatasaray

Tens of thousands of Galatasaray fans were at the airport in Istanbul on Tuesday morning to welcome Victor Osimhen ahead of his imminent transfer to the 24-time Turkish Super Lig champions.

Barring any unexpected developments, the reigning African Footballer of the Year will join Galatasaray on loan for the remainder of the season with a break clause for January 2025.

Following the signing of Belgium national teamer Romelu Lukaku, Osimhen was expected to leave Napoli on transfer deadline day in the big European leagues as there was concrete interest from Chelsea and Al-Ahli but the two deals did not happen.

Galatasaray have plenty of time to get the Osimhen deal sorted as the Turkish transfer window does not close until September 13.

The Lion have made a shock move for the Super Eagles forward as they have an injury upfront with Mauro Icardi set for a spell on the sidelines.

Osimhen was forced to accept a transfer to Galatasaray after Napoli manager Antonio Conte informed him that he was no longer needed and warned that he wouldn’t get any playing time if he remained at the club.

Galatasaray are historically one of the biggest clubs in world football and have incredible fans who make the atmosphere at the stadium very special, so it’s going to be an extraordinary experience for Osimhen.

Speaking to GSTV after his arrival in Istanbul, Osimhen, potentially the biggest star in Turkish football when it comes to players, has vowed to score goals for his new club and also revealed that he spoke to Galatasaray forward Dries Mertens, whom he played with at Napoli. 

In quotes relayed by Fanatik, Osimhen said: “I am very happy to be here. There is an incredible atmosphere. I want to get on the field as soon as possible.

“I played with Dries. He helped me a lot. I also spoke to him before coming here. I can’t wait to be on the field with him.

“I was very excited to see the fans coming here at this time of night. I want to drive them crazy with the goals I will score and have them shout my name.”