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“He’s a Chelsea fan” – Super Eagles star linked to Arsenal has held no transfer talks with Saudi’s Al Hilal

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Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen remains fully focused on his season with Galatasaray, with his camp dismissing reports of transfer talks with Saudi club Al Hilal or any other suitor, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigerian striker, who joined the Turkish giants on loan from Napoli, has been in superb form this season, attracting interest from several top clubs across Europe and the Middle East.

However, one of Osimhen’s representative, George Gardi, has denied any discussions about a potential move.

Speaking to Tuttomercatoweb as per BeinSports, Gardi addressed speculation linking Osimhen with a move to the Saudi Pro League.

“There has been no such meeting, neither before nor now,” Gardi stated. “The player promised to stay in Istanbul throughout the season, and he kept his word. He did not consider any transfer interest.”

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The 26-year-old forward has adapted well to life in Turkey, with Gardi emphasising how comfortably Osimhen has settled in.

“He is not the first big star to come to Istanbul,” Gardi said.

“All the champion players who have come here have always been pleased with the opportunities this city has offered them. Osimhen also loves everything around him and has adapted perfectly to life here.”

Nigeria Super Eagles and Napoli-owned star Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO

Osimhen played a key role in Napoli’s historic Serie A triumph in 2023, finishing as the league’s top scorer and becoming the first African player to win the Capocannoniere.

Now, he is on course to add another league title to his collection, with Galatasaray leading the charge ahead of fierce rivals Fenerbahce, managed by José Mourinho.

Despite mounting speculation about his long-term future, Gardi made it clear that Osimhen’s priority is delivering success for Galatasaray this season.

“The player will decide later,” he added. “For now, his only focus is to make a mark this season.”

Nigeria Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO
Nigeria Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO

Osimhen has been in blistering form for Galatasaray, registering 26 goals and five assists in 30 appearances across all competitions. His performances have further solidified his reputation as one of the most lethal strikers in Europe.

His impact has also been felt on the international stage.

Over the past five days, Osimhen netted three goals in two games for Nigeria, scoring twice in a 2-0 victory over Rwanda before adding another in a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe.

With 26 international goals, he is now Nigeria’s second all-time top scorer, trailing only the legendary Rashidi Yekini, who scored 37 times for the Super Eagles.

Nigeria Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO
Nigeria Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO

Premier League giants circling for Super Eagles star, Osimhen 

Osimhen is expected to be one of the most sought-after strikers in the upcoming transfer window, with several top clubs across Europe keen to secure his signature once his loan spell at Galatasaray ends.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle have all been linked with the Nigerian, while Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is reportedly preparing to sell him to the highest bidder this summer.

Nigeria Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo Credit X
Nigeria Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo Credit X

Osimhen was close to joining Chelsea last summer, but negotiations collapsed, leading to his temporary switch to Turkey.

With Napoli now prepared to part ways permanently, the club hopes to recoup a significant fee, with a reported €75 million release clause in place.

According to Sky Sports, Manchester United could be in a strong position to make a move as they look to strengthen their attacking options. Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled to provide consistent firepower, making Osimhen an attractive target for Erik ten Hag’s side.

Paris Saint-Germain, once considered strong contenders for his signature, are believed to have cooled their interest, with manager Luis Enrique reportedly unconvinced that Osimhen fits into his tactical plans.

Troost-Ekong hints at Premier League move

Osimhen has long been tipped for a move to the Premier League, and his Nigeria teammate William Troost-Ekong recently suggested that a switch to England could be on the horizon.

“I know he’s a Chelsea fan, but I also know he’s had talks with all the top teams. It’s up to him what he chooses. He will fit into every team,” Troost-Ekong told TalkSport.

“I know Liverpool have spoken about getting a new striker next season. We will see.

“I’m also reading, like everyone else, that he has a clause this summer. When he went to Galatasaray, I think it worked out amazingly for him.

“I couldn’t see him playing there for another season, or anywhere else but the Premier League next season.”

With interest mounting and Napoli prepared to sell, Osimhen’s next move is set to be one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer. However, for now, his focus remains firmly on finishing the season strong with Galatasaray.

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