Galatasaray open new ‘direct talks’ with Napoli over transfer for Victor Osimhen as saga around Nigerian striker drags on

Galatasaray A.S. v Tottenham Hotspur - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD4

Galatasaray have reportedly resumed 'direct talks' with Napoli for Victor Osimhen as the Turkish champions push to finalise a €70 million (£60m) deal for the Nigerian striker. An improved offer is on the table as Galatasaray have offered a staggered payment structure which would see them pay €40 million upfront with €35 million in add-ons and installments.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has reported Galatasaray have submitted a new proposal to Napoli worth €70m, structured as €40m upfront with €17.5m in instalments and another €17.5m in add-ons. The report suggested that talks resumed on Sunday as both clubs aim to find a compromise on payment terms and bank guarantees. The deal would be the most expensive in Turkish football history and a landmark statement by Galatasaray.

FBL-EUR-C3-GALATASARAY-DYNAMO KYIV

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Osimhen has already given the green light to the transfer, prioritising Galatasaray over other interested clubs. Napoli previously rejected a lower offer but are now closer to accepting the Super Lig champions' latest bid. Napoli are open to the deal but want tighter financial security on the deal regarding the instalments.

DID YOU KNOW?

Further reports have suggested that negotiations have accelerated following Galatasaray delivering the bank guarantees Napoli requested. The Turkish giants want to wrap up the deal before pre-season begins and have made Osimhen their primary target. Napoli, meanwhile, are planning to use the funds to plan a summer renovation of the squad.

Victor Osimhen Galatasaray

WHAT NEXT FOR GALATASARAY?

Further meetings are scheduled this week to finalise payment schedules and paperwork. Galatasaray are confident of landing Osimhen but face a race against time to seal the deal before the squad departs for their summer tour.