Football

Galatasaray Make Their Decision on Victor Osimhen as Al-Hilal Step Up Interest in the Nigerian Striker

today13 August 2026 2

Background
share close

Victor Osimhen’s future has taken another dramatic turn after Galatasaray reportedly rejected an approach from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal for the Nigerian striker, despite growing speculation that the Turkish champions could be prepared to consider a lucrative offer for their star forward.

Al-Hilal’s interest in Osimhen has intensified in recent days as the Saudi club continues to explore attacking options. Reports indicate that an approach was made to Galatasaray, but the Turkish side made it clear that they were not interested in selling the 27-year-old at this stage.

The development is significant because it comes amid conflicting reports about Galatasaray’s position. Some reports have claimed that the club has lowered its asking price to around €65 million and would consider selling if that valuation were met. Other reports, however, say Galatasaray have rejected Al-Hilal’s approach and remain unwilling to part with Osimhen.

Osimhen only recently became a permanent Galatasaray player after the Turkish club completed his transfer from Napoli following his hugely successful loan spell in Istanbul. His importance to the team has made any potential departure a major decision for the Turkish champions, particularly with the new season approaching.

For Galatasaray, keeping Osimhen would preserve one of the most dangerous attacking players in Turkish football. The Nigerian has quickly become a central figure in the club’s ambitions, helping them maintain their dominance domestically while also providing a major attacking threat in European competition.

Al-Hilal, meanwhile, have the financial strength to make the situation particularly difficult for Galatasaray. The Saudi club has continued to pursue high-profile international players and could potentially offer Osimhen a significantly more lucrative contract. But convincing the striker himself could prove just as important as reaching an agreement with Galatasaray.

Another factor is Champions League football. Osimhen would have the opportunity to continue playing at Europe’s highest club level with Galatasaray, something that could influence his decision if Al-Hilal formally advances its interest. Reports from Italy have identified convincing the Nigerian to leave Istanbul as one of the key issues that would need to be resolved for a Saudi move to happen.

The latest developments also come after Osimhen was linked with several European clubs earlier in the summer. Tottenham have reportedly shown interest, while Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have also been mentioned in connection with the Nigerian at different stages of the transfer window.

For now, there is no completed deal with Al-Hilal, and the conflicting reports over Galatasaray’s valuation mean the situation remains fluid. What appears clear is that Osimhen continues to attract serious interest, but Galatasaray still have significant control over whether their record signing leaves Istanbul this summer.

Written by: Rachael Obilor

Rate it