Victor Osimhen: Breaking down Arsenal, Chelsea links to fresh ₦195bn bid for Galatasaray star

Galatasaray are fighting tooth and nail to keep Victor Osimhen in Istanbul beyond the summer but it appears to be a battle the Turkish giants are destined to lose, Afrik-Foot reports.

This comes after a fresh report from Fanatik revealed that Galatasaray have received a staggering €125 million (about ₦195 billion) offer for the Nigerian striker.

The Super Eagles star enjoyed a remarkable campaign in Istanbul and remains one of the most sought-after forwards in world football. Since the end of the season, clubs from England, Spain, France and elsewhere have been linked with a move for the 27-year-old.

According to the reports, an unnamed European heavyweight recently approached Galatasaray with a verbal offer worth €125 million. The bid arrived shortly after another huge proposal reportedly worth €120 million from Atlético Madrid was rejected by the Turkish champions. It is claimed that the mystery club was prepared to break transfer records to secure Osimhen’s signature.

Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxSeskimphotox

Despite the enormous amount on offer, Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek is said to have immediately ruled out the possibility of a sale. The club’s hierarchy reportedly believes Osimhen’s value is significantly higher and has no intention of negotiating unless a proposal reaches at least €150 million.

The Turkish giants are also in a strong position after completing Osimhen’s permanent transfer from Napoli for €75 million last year. His current contract reportedly runs until 2029, giving Galatasaray full control over any future negotiations.

Osimhen rewarded the club’s faith with an outstanding campaign. In 33 appearances last season, he scored 22 goals and provided eight assists, helping Galatasaray secure a fourth consecutive Turkish Süper Lig title.

Victor Osimhen. Copyright: xSeskimphotoxImago

Victor Osimhen: Which clubs can afford a €125 million move?

With the identity of the mystery bidder still unknown, attention will turn to the small group of elite clubs capable of spending more than €125 million on a single player.

Chelsea remain one of the strongest candidates. Under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the London club has repeatedly shown a willingness to invest heavily in transfer windows. The Blues have long admired Osimhen and continue searching for a proven goalscorer capable of leading their attack in the Premier League.

Arsenal are another realistic contender. Mikel Arteta’s side secured the Premier League for the first time in over two decades and reached the final of the Champions League. While the Gunners possess several attacking options, many believe they still need a ruthless centre-forward capable of converting chances in decisive matches. Osimhen’s aerial ability, pace and finishing make him an attractive option.

However, Chelsea and Arsenal are not alone in the race.

Victor Osimhen linked to Manchester United. Copyright: Imago

Manchester United have also been linked with the Nigerian international for several transfer windows. The Old Trafford club continue searching for an elite striker who can lead their rebuilding project and restore them to the top of English and European football.

Paris Saint-Germain possess the financial resources to match almost any transfer fee in world football. The French champions have reduced their wage bill in recent years and could view Osimhen as the ideal focal point for their evolving squad.

Real Madrid cannot be discounted either. The Spanish giants remain among the richest clubs in Europe and have the financial flexibility to fund major transfers if they identify a strategic need in attack.

At this stage, the identity of the club behind the €125 million bid remains a mystery. What is clear, however, is that Galatasaray are determined to keep their star striker and have signalled that even a record-breaking offer may not be enough to tempt them into selling one of the most feared forwards in world football.