VICTOR Osimhen arrived in Istanbul, Turkey last night and was welcomed at the airport by thousands of Galatasaray fans ahead of his transfer from Napoli.
The Super Eagles striker is in Turkey to complete the final formalities of his permanent move to Galatasaray from the Serie A champions.
Osimhen, who spent the 2024/2025 season out on loan with Galatasaray, is returning in a €75m deal. Napoli will receive €40m up front and the remaining €35m by the end of 2026.
The 26-year-old Nigeria international will complete his medical and sign his contract today on what is expected to be a five-year deal.
Thousands of supporters turned out to welcome Osimhen back to Istanbul last night.
There were also tens of thousands of fans who tuned into the Galatasaray YouTube channel, which had been tracking the player’s flight over to Istanbul on a live stream.
He led the supporters in a chant, and also gave a brief interview to the press waiting for him at the terminal.
“For me, I don’t know the words to use to explain. It feels so great to be back. Look at the crowd, look at the people that are tracking the flight,” Osimhen said.
“I’m home, this is where I want to be. I’m happy to be here, to come back to where I feel at home for myself, my family and my friends.
“I want to take the opportunity to thank the President of Gala, the vice-President, George Gardi, Okan Buruk, everyone who made sure I came back to my home.
“I want to say a very big thank you, and also to the fans that have pushed, that wanted me at the club, as much as I want them also.
“I’m happy to be here. The story continues and I’m happy to continue with Galatasaray.”
Osimhen scored 37 goals last season to inspire Galatasaray to the Turkish Super Lig and Turkish Cup double.