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Premier League giants Chelsea have reportedly entered the race to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with Turkish champions Galatasaray demanding a staggering €150 million for the Super Eagles forward amid growing transfer interest across Europe.
Fresh speculation over Osimhen’s future intensified after Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle revealed that the striker was omitted from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal due to ongoing transfer-related considerations.
“Victor Osimhen will not be in our friendly matches against Poland and Portugal. Because there may be a possibility of a club change. Therefore, I preferred him to stay at home. If your mind is not 100 per cent here, going out on the field to play does not create a good situation,” Chelle said.
The comments immediately fueled reports linking the 27-year-old with a summer move away from Galatasaray.
However, Osimhen swiftly responded to the speculation, insisting that the coach’s remarks had been misinterpreted and exaggerated.
“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” Osimhen wrote on Instagram.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games and never intended to create any controversy. I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”
Nigeria’s media team also issued a clarification shortly after the coach’s comments generated widespread attention.
Despite Osimhen’s efforts to downplay the transfer rumours, interest in the prolific striker remains strong. The Nigerian international has previously been linked with Manchester United, where reports suggest he remains a top target on the club’s striker shortlist ahead of the summer transfer window.
Sources close to the player indicate that Osimhen would only consider an exit should Galatasaray decide to sanction a move.
According to Turkish outlet Sabah, Chelsea have now made initial contact regarding a potential deal and are expected to intensify their pursuit when the transfer window officially opens.
Galatasaray, however, appear determined to keep hold of their prized asset unless their valuation is met. The Turkish champions are reportedly unwilling to entertain offers below €150 million for the striker, whom they signed from Napoli for €75 million last summer.
Osimhen enjoyed another impressive campaign, playing a key role in Galatasaray’s successful Turkish Super Lig title defence. He scored 15 league goals and registered five assists in 22 appearances, while also contributing seven goals and three assists in the UEFA Champions League as the club advanced to the Round of 16.
With Europe’s top clubs circling and Galatasaray standing firm on their valuation, Osimhen’s future is set to remain one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.
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