Galatasaray Set to Meet Victor Osimhen’s Wage Demands Ahead of Loan Move

Turkish football giants Galatasaray are reportedly prepared to meet Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen’s substantial wage demands as part of a potential loan deal.

This development comes after wage negotiations were a major stumbling block during Osimhen’s proposed transfer to Chelsea in the summer, with the Premier League club unwilling to meet the 25-year-old’s financial expectations.

Osimhen, who currently plays for Napoli, became the highest-paid player at the Serie A club following his contract extension last summer. His current salary stands at an impressive €246,538 per week, or approximately €12.8 million annually, according to Capology. This figure is more than double that of Napoli’s next highest earner, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, who earns €5.56 million per year.

Despite Chelsea’s strong interest in securing Osimhen’s services during the summer transfer window, the club’s reluctance to match his salary demands led to the deal falling through. However, Galatasaray, eager to strengthen their attacking options, have now stepped up, offering a proposal that Osimhen has reportedly accepted.

What’s on the Table for Osimhen?

According to multiple reports, including from respected football journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Galatasaray have agreed to cover all of Osimhen’s wages for the duration of the proposed one-year loan. Fabrizio Romano, another leading voice in football transfer news, has further clarified that while Galatasaray will not be covering the full amount, they will be taking on €9-10 million of his wages – a figure that closely aligns with Osimhen’s current earnings at Napoli and is significantly higher than what Chelsea were prepared to offer.

For context, Galatasaray’s current highest earner is Argentine striker Mauro Icardi, who takes home €7.6 million annually. Should the deal go through, Osimhen would surpass Icardi’s salary, making him the highest-paid player at the Turkish club, just as he is at Napoli.

The Deal’s Impact on Napoli

In order for the loan deal to be finalized, Osimhen is expected to sign a contract extension with Napoli. This move would ensure that the Italian club can protect his transfer value for future negotiations. By securing a contract extension, Napoli would be in a stronger position to command a high transfer fee for Osimhen when the loan deal ends, safeguarding their investment in the prolific striker.

This potential loan to Galatasaray offers Osimhen a new opportunity in the Turkish Super Lig, while also allowing Napoli to manage his future market value. The Nigerian forward, who has become one of Europe’s most sought-after talents, could make a significant impact in Turkey, helping Galatasaray as they push for both domestic and European success.

With the Turkish transfer window open until mid-September, all eyes are on the final details of this high-profile deal as it moves closer to completion.