'A lot of money' – Fenerbahce icon raises concerns over Osimhen's record-breaking transfer

Fenerbahce legend Umit Ozat has voiced strong concerns over the financial implications of Victor Osimhen's high-profile transfer to Galatasaray, warning that the fee involved is excessive and unsustainable for Turkish clubs.

In addition to the record €75 million transfer fee, the highest ever paid by a Turkish club, Galatasaray have agreed to a 10 percent sell-on clause with Napoli.

Osimhen is set to earn a guaranteed annual salary of €15 million, along with a €1 million loyalty bonus and €5 million in image rights payments.

A standout season that saw the Nigerian hitman score 37 times in 41 matches and help secure a domestic double for Galatasaray ultimately justified the club’s decision to pursue a big-money move.

Ozat acknowledged Osimhen's undeniable talent but questioned the rationale behind Galatasaray’s record-breaking investment.

"Galatasaray did a great job keeping Osimhen. I'm not disputing Osimhen's performance or his on-field performance," he said on SkySpor's Youtube channel.

"Can you say that signing Osimhen was a bad thing? However, the cost is far above the national economy."

Osimhen's transfer has sparked debate over whether Turkish clubs can sustain such financial outlays.

"I would say so if Fenerbahçe did the same. I hope they can come up with the money.

"Osimhen is a valuable, high-quality, and great player, but for our clubs, these amounts are a lot of money."

Despite his reservations, the retired Turkey international dismissed any notion of jealousy.

"I don't envy the transfer. These amounts of money shouldn't be given lightly," Ozat concluded.

Osimhen has started training with Galatasaray following his record-breaking transfer, but has been left out of the matchday squad for this evening's friendly against Dele-Bashiru's Lazio.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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