Why Napoli loanee Victor Osimhen rejected transfer to Juventus this winter

Victor Osimhen’s decision to reject a move to Juventus during the winter transfer window has raised eyebrows across Europe, with the Nigerian striker opting to remain at Galatasaray for the remainder of the season. 

The move would have seen the 25-year-old forward leave the Turkish giants and return to Serie A, but Osimhen chose to honor his commitment to Galatasaray despite strong interest from the Serie A heavyweights.

Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in the summer of 2024, was reportedly Juventus' top target as a replacement for Dušan Vlahović, who has been linked with a transfer to Arsenal. 

Juventus were prepared to trigger Osimhen release clause, but the striker, who played a key role in Napoli’s first Serie A title in 33 years, made it clear he was not considering a move mid-season.

A close associate of Osimhen, Buchi Laba, confirmed that despite multiple offers from top clubs—including Juventus—the forward had no intention of leaving Galatasaray during the January transfer window. 

Osimhen had previously stated that he was committed to his current club for the rest of the campaign, which played a key role in his decision to reject Juventus’ advances.

"They are talking about January. I am here until the end of the season. I don’t know what Galatasaray and Napoli are talking about after that… We will talk when they tell me. This is a club I really like," Osimhen remarked, as quoted by Nexus Sports.

The Super Eagles striker has been instrumental in Galatasaray’s push for domestic and European honors this season, attracting interest from several European clubs. 

However, despite Napoli still holding his contract, Osimhen made it clear that he would not be parting ways with the Turkish club in the middle of the season. 

His focus remains firmly on helping Galatasaray achieve success in the upcoming Europa League knockout rounds and the Turkish Süper Lig.

While Osimhen’s long-term future remains uncertain, with Napoli potentially considering a summer transfer, his decision to reject a move to Juventus highlights his professionalism and determination to see out his current challenge in Istanbul. 

The striker’s impressive form at Galatasaray has ensured that his name will remain a subject of transfer rumors, but for now, his priority is clear—staying with his current club until the end of the season.

Osimhen's loyalty to Galatasaray has strengthened his reputation as a player who values his commitments. Juventus, along with other European clubs, will likely keep an eye on the situation as the summer transfer window approaches, but for now, the Nigerian forward will continue to focus on his performances with the Turkish club.

Wale Adejumo

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