Napoli have turned down a fresh €75m bid from Galatasaray for Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, despite the Turkish giants meeting the official release clause in his contract.
The revelation came from Nigerian sports journalist and transfer insider Onyebuchi Onokala, popularly known as Buchi Laba, who said Napoli are intent on steering the Super Eagles forward towards a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia instead.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) early Thursday, Onokala wrote: “Napoli officially turns down Galatasaray €75m third offer for Victor Osimhen. The official Release clause Figure.”
The 26-year-old striker, who spent a successful loan spell at Galatasaray, has reportedly given his approval for a permanent transfer to the Istanbul-based club.
“Victor James Osimhen says YES to Galatasaray and wants to continue with the Turkish team
“Napoli for weeks have been pleading with Victor Osimhen to stay. Osimhen has made it very, very clear that he wants to leave.”Onokala confirmed
According to Onokala, Napoli’s rejection of Galatasaray’s bid — even though it matches the contractual release clause — is a calculated move to direct Osimhen to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, who are ready to pay the full amount upfront.
However, sources close to the player insist Osimhen is not open to a Saudi switch and remains determined to continue his career in Europe. He is said to have informed Napoli’s hierarchy of his stance and will not report for pre-season training under new manager Antonio Conte.
Italian outlet Sky Italia, via Gianluca Di Marzio, earlier reported that Galatasaray had agreed personal terms with Osimhen and submitted a formal offer.
However, the Turkish club’s plan to pay the €75m in structured instalments is believed to have irked Napoli, who prefer a lump-sum payment.
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs have cooled their interest. Arsenal have shifted focus to other targets, while Manchester United are exploring Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo due to concerns over Osimhen’s wage demands.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also noted that United’s pursuit was “never concrete,” highlighting Osimhen’s high salary expectations and growing comfort with life in Istanbul as factors stalling any Premier League move.
