Victor Osimhen received a thunderous welcome in Istanbul on Wednesday night as the Nigerian striker landed to complete a sensational return to Galatasaray, Footynaija.com reports.
Osimhen’s dramatic Napoli exit and subsequent arrival at Galatasaray is set to become the most expensive signing in Turkish football history.
Thousands of Galatasaray fans thronged Atatürk Airport, lighting flares and chanting as Osimhen, 26, arrived ahead of his €75 million transfer from Napoli.
The Super Eagles star, who had an outstanding loan spell at the club last season, didn’t disappoint as he spoke affectionately and danced to the delight of supporters.
Victor Osimhen’in üçlüsü pic.twitter.com/QT5aKmQRQQ
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“This is where I want to be. I’m happy to be back,” Osimhen told reporters and fans. “I feel great to be here. Look at the crowd, look at the people following the plane. I’d like to thank our president, Abdullah Kavukcu, George Gardi, Okan Hoca, and everyone who made my transfer happen. As I always say: the story continues.”
Galatasaray will reportedly pay €40 million upfront, with €35 million due next year, alongside a 10% sell-on clause. A clause also restricts the Nigerian striker from joining any Serie A side for the next two years.
The move comes after Osimhen’s remarkable 2023/24 campaign, where he scored 37 goals and provided seven assists, helping Galatasaray clinch a domestic double. He was named Player of the Season, won the Golden Boot, and scored twice in the Turkish Cup final against Trabzonspor.
“This has been the only thing on my mind since the beginning of the year,” Osimhen added. “Now it’s time to focus. I’ll do my best to achieve the goals of our coach and the club.”
The striker, visibly emotional, described the fans as “the best in the world“, saying: “So many people came just to see one player. I will strive to give my best on the pitch for them this season.”
With a medical scheduled and paperwork nearly completed, Galatasaray are expected to unveil Osimhen officially in the coming days — sealing what could be the cornerstone move of their domestic and European ambitions.