Why Victor Osimhen will stay put at Galatasaray despite links to Manchester United, Chelsea

Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has addressed the swirling transfer rumours surrounding Victor Osimhen, ruling out a January exit for the Nigerian striker, Soccernet.football reports.

Speaking to Turkish media via Foot Mercato, Buruk provided updates on the club’s winter transfer plans while emphasising Osimhen’s integral role in their campaign.

“First of all, the transfer market is not yet open. We could recruit in defense or up front,” Buruk explained, adding that decisions would depend on potential player departures.

Despite speculation linking Osimhen to clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester United, Buruk was adamant about the striker’s immediate future: “Everyone wants Osimhen in their team. When I was told about Osimhen, I immediately said ‘okay,’ I didn’t think twice.”

Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli last summer after a proposed move to Chelsea collapsed, has been a standout performer for the Süper Lig leaders, tallying 12 goals and five assists across all competitions.

Buruk praised the forward’s professionalism and commitment to the team. “He is a very decent and good character. He adheres to the team and the game. He wants to be with us until the end of the season,” he stated.

Buruk also addressed the ongoing speculation about Galatasaray potentially making Osimhen’s stay permanent.

“Of course, I would like to receive Osimhen’s transfer fee, but we should not talk about it all the time. It is important to leave the player’s mind at ease while the season continues. Our chairman and managers say the same thing. It’s too early to decide.”

Osimhen’s stellar performances have attracted interest from European giants, but Buruk remains focused on the present. “He is happy here, and we hope to see him succeed with us until the end of the season,” he concluded.

While Galatasaray eyes reinforcements in other areas, including Milan Skriniar’s potential loan move from PSG, Osimhen’s immediate future seems settled, leaving fans eager to see how the season unfolds for the Turkish powerhouse.