'Made me wear a lion mask' – Udinese chief on Napoli owner's antics and Osimhen's future

Udinese technical director Gökhan İnler, has shed light on Napoli owner Aurelio De Laurentiis’ eccentric personality and the ongoing transfer saga involving Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, who is on the verge of a sensational move to Turkish giants Galatasaray.

Osimhen, who enjoyed a stellar loan spell with Galatasaray last season, is reportedly close to sealing a permanent transfer to the Istanbul club.

The 26-year-old was instrumental in the club’s domestic success, scoring 37 goals and providing eight assists to help them clinch both the league title and the Domestic Cup.

Speaking with HT Spor as reported by habersarikirmizi, İnler praised Galatasaray’s ambitious pursuit of the Nigerian star.

"I know Victor Osimhen well; he always wanted Galatasaray," Inler said. 

"When the signing happened, we should congratulate Galatasaray. It's a really big transfer. I hope it happens soon."

İnler also recounted his own unusual experience with Napoli president De Laurentiis during his transfer from Udinese to Napoli, offering insight into the Italian mogul’s quirky behavior.

"Aurelio De Laurentiis, as I know him, never gives up until the last minute. My transfer was difficult too, going from Udinese to Napoli... 

"He made me wear a lion mask at the signing ceremony, even though I didn't want it. The president insisted on it,” he revealed.

Although both Galatasaray and Napoli have reportedly reached an agreement on Osimhen’s transfer, the deal has been delayed as the Italian side demands bank guarantees for the payment of the striker’s release clause.

With the 2025/2026 season just around the corner, Galatasaray are keen to finalize the deal swiftly, hoping to secure one of their most prized signings in recent years.

Adeyemi Adewale

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