Victor Osimhen sends first message since Chelsea transfer collapse after joining Galatasaray | OneFootball

Nigeria star was a target for the Blues late into transfer Deadline Day

Victor Osimhen insists he is “very happy” to have joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan from Napoli.

The Nigeria international completed a shock move to the Istanbul giants earlier this week, bringing an end to a summer-long transfer saga.

Chelsea were attempting to sign the striker late into Deadline Day but could not come to an agreement over his wages.

Arsenal had also been linked with a move for Osimhen, as well as Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli.

Interest from Saudi was ultimately rebuffed and Ivan Toney eventually joined the club, leaving the 25-year-old in limbo.

Though a hugely important figure in Naples during their famous Serie A title win in 2023, new manager Antonio Conte confirmed the striker would not feature in his plans after handing in a transfer request.

Turkish champions Gala have swooped to make a statement signing, albeit the loan deal reportedly includes a break clause which will be active during the January transfer window.

Victor Osimhen arrives in Istanbul on Monday evening.

Anadolu via Getty Images

Speaking to the club’s official website about the move, Osimhen said: “When I heard of the interest from Galatasaray, it was a very easy decision for me.

"I knew how big Galatasaray was and how much like a family it was, and it had incredible fans.

"Henry (Onyekuru) is my friend and he played for Galatasaray before and is still a fan. He told me how wonderful the people here are, so it was an easy decision for me."