Victor Osimhen has reportedly rejected a jaw-dropping €160 million four-year deal from Saudi Arabian giants, Al-Hilal, reaffirming his decision to continue playing in Europe — this time with Turkish champions, Galatasaray.
The Nigerian international, currently contracted to Napoli, is said to have personally phoned Galatasaray’s top brass, urging them to speed up negotiations with his Italian club amid mounting pressure for a Saudi move.
“I want to continue at Galatasaray. Get my transfer fee from Napoli. They want to sell me to Saudi Arabia. They have plans to sell me for €100 million (about N179 billion) after July 15,” Osimhen reportedly said in a direct call to Galatasaray’s officials, according to Milliyet, via Habersarikirmizi.
Deal on the Table, But Clock Is Ticking
The 25-year-old striker, who has become one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards, has now verbally agreed to a four-year contract with Galatasaray, which also includes a fifth optional year. He is expected to earn €16 million annually, plus an additional €10 million in sponsor bonuses — a total package reportedly lower than the Saudi offer, but enough to keep him in top-flight European football.
Galatasaray, however, are racing against time and stiff Napoli resistance.
Napoli Say No to €65m Offer
Napoli have already rejected Galatasaray’s initial €50 million proposal, and also turned down improved bids of €60 million and €65 million. Sources say the Serie A side are holding out for a minimum €100 million — Osimhen’s release clause — which they believe a Saudi club is ready to trigger after July 15.
To meet this demand, Galatasaray are exploring a structured payment plan: €25 million in instalments over three years, while keeping dialogue open with Napoli’s hierarchy.
Internal Meetings at Rams Park
Following Osimhen’s direct intervention, Galatasaray President Dursun Özbek and Sportif AŞ Vice-President Abdullah Kavukcu held closed-door meetings at Rams Park to assess the feasibility of funding the ambitious deal, especially with interest from Al-Hilal intensifying.
Career Over Cash?
Osimhen’s rejection of Saudi riches in favour of Galatasaray is seen by many as a strong statement — a young African footballer prioritising legacy and Champions League exposure over big money.
Still, the transfer remains delicate. Napoli’s resolve, Galatasaray’s finances, and Al-Hilal’s looming offer will ultimately shape the outcome in the coming days.
For Osimhen, the clock is ticking. And his message is clear: he wants to stay in Europe — before it’s too late.
