“Everyone is curious about Osimhen,” Yürekli admitted. “The information I have is that there won’t be a signature from today to tomorrow. The likelihood of the transfer happening is high, but due to some technical processes, it will take a bit more time.” His statement, though tempered with caution, confirms what many insiders have suspected: the deal is close, but not yet finalized.
Behind the Scenes of a Blockbuster Deal
Victor Osimhen, currently under contract with SSC Napoli, has been one of the most sought-after strikers in world football over the past two years. After a phenomenal 2022–23 season where he led Napoli to their first Serie A title in over three decades, the 25-year-old’s market value skyrocketed. Numerous European clubs have shown interest, but Galatasaray’s persistence has made them a surprise front-runner in the race.
Reports in recent weeks indicated that both clubs had agreed on most key terms, including transfer fee structure, resale clauses, and financial guarantees. However, Yürekli’s statement clarifies that while the broad outlines are in place, the technical and legal components of the transfer are still being worked through. These might include issues such as the player’s image rights, contract finalizations, and transfer timing under UEFA and FIFA regulations.
Why the Delay Matters — And Doesn’t
It’s important to note that in high-profile transfers—especially those involving fees potentially exceeding €70–80 million—delays are not only normal, they are expected. Factors such as medicals, visa and work permit applications, payment schedules, and even the player’s personal preferences can all slow down the timeline.
In Osimhen’s case, there may also be contractual protections built into his existing Napoli deal that require careful handling. The delay, as Yürekli emphasizes, does not suggest a breakdown in negotiations but rather a meticulous attention to detail — something both clubs are understandably prioritizing given the scope of the transfer.
Galatasaray’s Statement of Ambition
For Galatasaray, pulling off the signing of Victor Osimhen would be nothing short of a historic moment. Bringing in a player of his caliber—at the peak of his career, no less—would be a resounding statement of ambition. It signals Galatasaray’s intent not just to dominate the Turkish Süper Lig, but also to compete seriously in Europe.
Osimhen’s potential arrival would be the club’s most high-profile signing in modern history, surpassing even their recent acquisition of stars like Mauro Icardi or Dries Mertens. His explosive pace, clinical finishing, and relentless energy would offer a new dimension to the team’s attacking line and elevate their stature in continental competitions.
What’s Next for the Deal?
With pre-season training already underway, fans are eager for a formal confirmation. However, based on Yürekli’s update, it seems a bit more patience will be required. The club is likely ironing out the final technical and legal steps before making a full announcement. In the meantime, Osimhen remains a Napoli player, although all signs point to a transition on the horizon.
If the transfer does go through, it will not only reshape Galatasaray’s immediate future—it could have ripple effects across the transfer market. Napoli, for instance, will be under pressure to find a replacement striker of comparable quality. Meanwhile, Galatasaray’s domestic rivals will have to reassess their own strategies in light of such a game-changing move.
Final Thoughts
While there’s no official signature just yet, Haluk Yürekli’s comments offer reassurance to Galatasaray supporters: this transfer is alive and well. With all major terms reportedly agreed upon and the player keen on the move, it now comes down to paperwork, patience, and precision.
In the often chaotic world of football transfers, clarity from credible sources like Yürekli helps cut through the noise. His insight gives fans hope that Victor Osimhen in yellow and red isn’t just a dream—it’s a highly likely reality, one just waiting for the final stamp.