Victor Osimhen has officially returned to Galatasaray on a permanent deal, declaring his joy and commitment to the Turkish champions after touching down in Istanbul on Wednesday night.
The Nigerian striker, who arrived aboard a private jet from Wolfsburg, Germany, alongside his partner and daughter, was greeted by a thunderous crowd of Galatasaray fans at the Istanbul Airport. All three were clad in the club’s red and yellow colours, symbolising Osimhen’s renewed allegiance to the club.
“I’m happy to continue with Galatasaray. My story continues,” Osimhen told reporters and ecstatic fans shortly after stepping out of the terminal. “I don’t know how to describe my feelings. I’m so excited. I’ve arrived at the place I love. I’m at home.”
The 25-year-old forward, who spent last season on loan from Napoli, scored 37 goals across all competitions and played a pivotal role in helping Galatasaray clinch both the Turkish Super Lig and the Turkish Cup.
Despite intense pressure from Napoli to push through a transfer to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, Osimhen held firm in his desire to remain with the Istanbul giants—a decision that has now paid off with a permanent four-year contract. He will earn between €15 million and €18 million annually, nearly matching what was on offer in Saudi Arabia.
Galatasaray Vice President Abdullah Kavukcu revealed the club had been working on the deal since January.
“We believed in this and started the process early. We worked hard to raise the money without selling anyone,” Kavukcu said. “We’re paying part of the fee upfront and will complete payment within a year. This is a big move, and we did it all without asking anyone for money.”
He urged fans to remain calm about other potential transfers. “The responsibility now falls on our fans. Galatasaray is huge, and we ask them to keep believing in us.”
Final paperwork and signing formalities are expected to be completed by Thursday.
Osimhen’s decision to reject lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and push for a return to Galatasaray has made him even more beloved among the fan base. His permanent signing is seen as a major coup for the Turkish double champions as they prepare for the new season and the UEFA Champions League campaign.
