Galatasaray have stepped up their pursuit of Victor Osimhen, submitting an initial €55 million offer to Napoli in a determined effort to land the Nigerian striker this summer, Footynaija.com reports.
The Turkish champions are hoping to capitalise on the player’s reported preference to join them over a more lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the Istanbul giants initially proposed a €50m package with €5m in add-ons, but Napoli remain firm on their €75m release clause.
Osimhen, who is said to be enthusiastic about the prospect of joining Galatasaray, has reportedly rejected a mammoth four-year, €160 million offer from Saudi side Al Hilal.
Instead, the 26-year-old appears to have prioritised competitive football and personal ambition over financial gain. Galatasaray, meanwhile, have tabled a personal offer worth €21 million annually, and given the striker until July 20 to reach a final decision.
Reports in Italy suggest that Osimhen has already told his representatives he prefers a move to Istanbul. Corriere dello Sport reported that Osimhen made the decision while on holiday in Nigeria, turning down Al Hilal’s offer despite their readiness to trigger his €75m release clause.
However, the final hurdle remains Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, who is reportedly unwilling to accept anything less than the full clause value.
Should no agreement be reached before Napoli’s pre-season begins on July 15, Osimhen will be expected to return to training under Antonio Conte.
With all parties now in active negotiations, the coming week could prove decisive in determining whether Osimhen dons the yellow and red of Galatasaray or is forced into an uncomfortable stay in Naples.