Fenerbahce are reportedly eyeing a bold move for Victor Osimhen, aiming to disrupt their fierce rivals Galatasaray by securing the Nigerian striker’s signature next season.
However, Soccernet.ng understands that this report of a potential move by the Yellow Canaries is more hype and tension-related than reality.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has quickly captured the hearts of Istanbul fans with an impressive tally of eight goals and four assists in just nine games.
His seamless adaptation to Turkish football, alongside high-profile teammates like Dries Mertens and Mauro Icardi, has made him a star and intensified speculation that Fenerbahçe might try to bring him across the Süper Lig divide.
Originally linked with top European clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Saudi Arabian teams, Osimhen eventually joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan after other deals fell through.
His performances in Turkey, including a standout display in Galatasaray’s recent 3-2 victory over Samsunspor, have heightened his appeal and drawn Fenerbahçe’s interest. However, whether this interest is genuine remains uncertain.
Reports from Italian media outlets indicate that Fenerbahçe, under the guidance of manager Jose Mourinho, are considering outbidding Galatasaray’s anticipated €50 million offer.
🚨🚨 Fenerbahçe Sportif Direktörü Branco, Napoli ile Osimhen için görüştü. (Sabah)
🔸 Napoli’nin cevabı: “Rakam 75 milyon Euro. Bunun 25 milyon Euro’sunu nakit veren herkesle masaya otururuz.” pic.twitter.com/lI7xcB7G4n
— Nexus Sports (@nexustransfer) November 12, 2024
Fenerbahce are rumoured to be ready to trigger Osimhen’s €81 million release clause in January, which is set to drop to €75 million in the summer.
However, complexities cloud Fenerbahçe’s potential move. Napoli still holds Osimhen’s contract, and club president Aurelio De Laurentiis will face challenging negotiations if any Süper Lig club attempts a permanent deal.
Furthermore, reports suggest that Osimhen’s strong connection with Galatasaray and his loyalty to the Yellow Reds might make a move to their rivals unlikely.
This loyalty has sparked frustration among Fenerbahçe fans, some of whom view Osimhen as a “cheat code” for their competitors.