In what could become one of the most high-profile transfers in Turkish football history, Galatasaray have scheduled a decisive meeting with Nigerian international striker Victor Osimhen next week, as the club intensifies efforts to secure his signature from Serie A giants Napoli.

The Turkish champions are reportedly prepared to meet Osimhen for face-to-face talks, which are expected to take place either in Nigeria or somewhere in Europe, depending on the striker’s availability. The meeting is aimed at gauging the 26-year-old’s openness to making the switch to Istanbul this summer, a move that would send shockwaves through the footballing world.

According to Turkish publication Hurriyet, Osimhen’s decision will heavily influence Galatasaray’s transfer blueprint for the 2024/25 season. Club insiders have confirmed that Osimhen is the top priority in their summer recruitment strategy, and his response to their proposal will determine how the club allocates its remaining transfer funds.

Galatasaray’s interest in Osimhen signals their ambition to not just dominate Turkish football, but also compete meaningfully in European competitions. The club secured the 2023/24 Super Lig title and the Turkish Cup, and now aims to build on that momentum with the acquisition of a marquee striker who has proven himself at the highest levels of European football.

Osimhen, who scored 26 goals in 32 Serie A appearances during the 2022/23 season, played a pivotal role in ending Napoli’s 33-year wait for a Scudetto. His powerful performances earned him the Serie A Golden Boot and attracted interest from several top European clubs.

While Galatasaray are confident in their sporting project and financial backing, Osimhen is reportedly still considering a move to the English Premier League, where he has long been linked with clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal. However, none of these clubs have yet made a formal offer that matches Napoli’s expectations.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that Osimhen’s previously reported €130 million release clause is no longer valid, meaning that any potential buyer including Galatasaray will have to enter direct negotiations with Napoli.

Sources indicate that Galatasaray are prepared to begin those discussions if and when Osimhen signals his willingness to make the move. The Turkish club is optimistic that the personal meeting with the striker and his representatives could be decisive in convincing him to join their ambitious project.

Contrary to some circulating reports, Osimhen did not spend last season on loan at Galatasaray. The striker remained contracted to Napoli throughout the 2023/24 season. The confusion appears to stem from inaccurate reporting or a mistaken identity with another player. Nonetheless, Galatasaray’s interest is serious and founded on a long-term vision.

A final decision from Osimhen is expected by July 14, according to sources close to the matter. If the striker gives the green light, Galatasaray will immediately open official talks with Napoli to iron out the details of a permanent transfer. If he declines, the funds earmarked for the striker will be redirected to other key positions, particularly midfield and defense. The coming week will therefore be pivotal for Galatasaray, who are determined to finalise their summer plans early, especially with UEFA Champions League qualifiers looming.

Galatasaray have emerged as one of the best-managed clubs in Turkish football in recent years, enjoying a resurgence both on and off the pitch. Under the leadership of club president Dursun Özbek, the club has adopted a more strategic approach to recruitment, combining experienced European players with emerging talents from Africa and South America.

Club officials are hopeful that the combination of Champions League football, a competitive salary package, and the chance to become the central figure in a club with one of the most passionate fanbases in Europe, will prove tempting for Osimhen.

If the deal materialises, it would not only elevate Galatasaray’s profile globally but also send a powerful message about the changing dynamics of European football, where traditional giants from outside the top five leagues are increasingly competing for elite talent.

Victor Osimhen’s next move remains one of the most closely watched storylines of the summer transfer window. While Galatasaray may face stiff competition from English clubs and other European heavyweights, they are making a bold attempt to land a player of rare quality.

As negotiations approach a crucial phase, all eyes will be on Osimhen’s camp. A positive response to Galatasaray’s approach could trigger swift negotiations with Napoli and set the stage for one of the most talked-about moves of the year.

Whatever the outcome, Galatasaray’s pursuit of Victor Osimhen underscores their ambition and signals a new era of ambition and competitiveness in Turkish football.