Nigerian superstar linked with Liverpool signs for Turkish club on loan

Not even a year ago, Victor Osimhen was the hottest striker on the planet. Having played a key role in Napoli winning their first Serie A title for 33 years, contributing 26 goals in the 2022/23 season, it seemed like the world was at his feet. 

Osimhen could have gone anywhere. Links with top clubs in Europe turned his head, but he committed his future to Napoli, signing a new contract in December 2023 that could have kept him there until 2026. 

However, it has all since come tumbling down for the Nigerian. Linked with Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia for £75million, the Napoli hero looked to be selling his soul for money, leaving behind his adoring fans who felt let down and betrayed. But this deal collapsed with Osimhen wanting to join Chelsea instead, a wish that went unfulfilled.

With Al Ahli pursuing the signing of Brentford’s Ivan Toney, and Napoli acquiring Romelu Lukaku for £40million, Osimhen has been frozen out at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. The fact Lukaku declined to take his no.9 shirt, out of respect, may have been of some consolation.

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Were Liverpool In For Osimhen?

It is being reported today that Liverpool approached Napoli with a view to signing the Nigerian, having previously had some interest in him last year. However, it seems the Reds were put off by the forward's salary expectations and instead signed another player from Serie A, Federico Chiesa, for a fraction of Osimhen's price. 

With Napoli clearly wanting him out, Osimhen was stuck, until Turkish outfit Galatasaray swooped in to sign him on loan until June 2025. Osimhen has been warmly welcomed in Istanbul with videos circulating on social media of streets being flooded with supporters celebrating his arrival and setting off flares, and thousands greeting him at the airport. It is fair to the say Turkish fans know how to acknowledge an incoming transfer!

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Osimhen seems delighted to have joined Galatasaray and he will most likely be a hit in Turkish football. But for a player of his power and talent, it's a shame to see him snub various clubs that could have kept him performing within Europe's top five leagues. Only time will tell whether the Nigerian is left to regret this surprising career move.