Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has officially completed a historic transfer to Galatasaray, describing the move as a “homecoming” following his €75 million switch from Italian side Napoli—a deal that now stands as the most expensive in Turkish football history.
As reported by Naija News, Osimhen was given a hero’s welcome on Wednesday night in Istanbul, where thousands of Galatasaray fans flooded Atatürk Airport and lined the streets to greet their returning star.
The 26-year-old’s transfer smashed the previous Turkish transfer record—held by Youssef En-Nesyri’s €19.5 million move to Fenerbahçe—and firmly establishes Osimhen as the highest-valued player ever signed by a Turkish club.
“This is where I can express myself fully through football and with everything that I am,” Osimhen said in his first official interview with Galatasaray, released via the club’s YouTube channel. “I’m truly grateful to everyone who worked to bring me here. I came because I love this place—I feel good here.”
Osimhen, who spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, credited the passion of the fans and the support he received during his temporary stay as pivotal in his decision to return permanently.
“I want to sincerely thank all the fans who tracked our flight and showed up to welcome me. I believe I can give my best here and prove myself on a new level,” he added.
The Nigerian international also expressed appreciation for Galatasaray’s leadership, naming President Dursun Özbek, Vice President Abdullah Bey, Technical Advisor George Gardi, and Head Coach Okan Buruk for their instrumental roles in facilitating the high-profile move.
“I can’t wait to play again in front of our supporters. This is my home now,” Osimhen said with pride.
The blockbuster transfer places Osimhen ahead of former Galatasaray stars such as Gabriel Sara (€18 million), Mario Jardel (€17 million), and Nicolò Zaniolo (€15 million) in terms of market value—cementing his status as a marquee signing and a symbol of Galatasaray’s ambitious future.
