Galatasaray chief's latest comment on Osimhen spells bad news for Chelsea – here's what he said

Galatasaray vice president Ibrahim Hatipoglu has issued an optimistic update on the club’s efforts to secure Napoli striker Victor Osimhen permanently, potentially dealing a blow to Chelsea and other suitors.

Following his loan stint at Galatasaray, the Nigerian forward remains in high demand despite a €75 million release clause, and has caught the eye of leading European sides, including Chelsea.

Hatipoglu, speaking to Spanish outlet AS via Sportmediaset, expressed confidence in Galatasaray’s position. 

"We are negotiating Osimhen, but there are offers from other teams. Galatasaray have also made an offer. The chances of Victor staying are increasing day by day, but the negotiations are long,” he said. 

The club’s determination is backed by their financial strength, with Hatipoglu noting, "We have the budget to guarantee his permanence. 

"Last year when Osimhen was offered to us, we didn’t need a striker, but his name was so important that we closed the deal in two days."

The negotiations are being spearheaded by Galatasaray’s head of transfers, Abdullah Kavukcu, alongside Osimhen’s agent, George Gardi. 

"Abdullah Kavukcu, head of transfers, is managing the negotiations together with agent George Gardi. It won’t be easy, but with each passing day the chances of him staying at Galatasaray increase," Hatipoglu added. 

Despite competition from Chelsea, who have long admired the 26-year-old, Galatasaray remain steadfast in their pursuit.

Osimhen’s rejection of a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal has intensified the race for his signature. 

As negotiations continue, Galatasaray’s proactive approach could see them retain one of Europe’s most coveted strikers, leaving rivals like Chelsea to reassess their transfer strategies.

Wale Adejumo

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