Galatasaray vice president Abdullah Kavukcu has revealed that Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen turned down staggering financial offers — including a €40 million-a-year deal from Saudi Arabia — to seal a permanent €75 million move to the Turkish giants, describing the decision as an extraordinary sacrifice.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday after Osimhen’s transfer from Napoli was officially confirmed, Kavukcu lauded the Super Eagles star for prioritising passion and loyalty over money.
“The amount Victor gave up to come here is truly enormous,” Kavukcu told Turkish media. “He gave up a sum no other player would ever give up, and we are proud to have him.”
Despite interest from Juventus and a record-breaking offer from Al-Hilal — managed by Simone Inzaghi — Osimhen opted to continue his journey with Galatasaray, where he had a sensational loan spell during the 2024/25 season, scoring 37 goals in 41 appearances.
According to reports, the 26-year-old will earn €15 million per year plus performance-related bonuses — significantly less than the Saudi offer, but a record salary in Turkish football.
Kavukcu stressed that the deal was completed without jeopardising Galatasaray’s financial future.
“We never compromised our financial position. In fact, we have registered Victor’s contract as capital in the club’s coffers,” he said. “Signing Victor without incurring debt is a major success and a proud moment for Turkish football.”
The €75 million fee makes Osimhen the most expensive signing in Turkish football history, eclipsing the previous record of €19.5 million paid for Youssef En-Nesyri by rivals Fenerbahçe.
In his first interview after the move, Osimhen expressed deep affection for Galatasaray, describing it as the perfect place for him to thrive.
“This is where I can express myself fully through my football and with everything that I am,” he told the club’s official YouTube channel. “I came because I love this place, and I feel good here.”
The former Napoli forward was welcomed like a hero upon his return to Istanbul on Wednesday night, with thousands of Galatasaray fans flooding Atatürk Airport and lining the streets to celebrate.
“The fans are incredible. I want to sincerely thank everyone who followed my flight and came out to welcome me,” Osimhen said. “This is my home now, and I can’t wait to give my best.”
Osimhen also took time to thank Napoli in a farewell message shared on social media. He scored 76 goals in 133 appearances for the Italian club and played a crucial role in their 2022/23 Serie A title triumph, finishing as the league’s top scorer.