Galatasaray’s ambitions to make Victor Osimhen’s stay permanent have suffered a setback after Napoli rejected their €65 million bid for the Nigerian striker. With the Turkish giants falling short of Osimhen’s €75 million release clause, they are now turning their attention to other high-profile options, including Spanish striker Álvaro Morata.
Morata in Advanced Talks with Galatasaray
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Galatasaray is in advanced negotiations with AC Milan to sign Morata, with all parties eager to finalize the deal within hours. Romano took to social media to confirm the development, stating, “EXCLUSIVE: Galatasaray are in advanced talks to sign Álvaro Morata from AC Milan! Talks underway to get the deal done soon, all parties ready to seal it in the next hours.”
Morata’s Impressive European Track Record
Morata, a two-time UEFA Champions League winner with Real Madrid, brings a wealth of European experience. His career has seen him play for major clubs including Juventus, Chelsea, Atlético Madrid, and his current team, AC Milan. His leadership qualities were on full display during Spain’s EURO 2024 triumph, where he captained the team to victory, making him an ideal candidate to replace Osimhen should his move to Galatasaray fall through.
Napoli Hold Firm on Osimhen Price Tag
While Osimhen has flourished at Galatasaray with 16 goals in 20 appearances, Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, remains steadfast in his valuation of the Nigerian forward. Despite the Turkish club’s interest, their €65 million offer was still €10 million short of the €75 million release clause. Napoli is expected to hold out for the full clause in the summer when more clubs may enter the race for Osimhen.
Osimhen himself has expressed his desire to remain at Galatasaray, where he has found stability after a tumultuous time in Italy. With the ongoing negotiations, the future of Osimhen remains uncertain, but for now, Galatasaray is setting its sights on Morata as a potential long-term replacement.
