Osimhen opens up on big offers he turned down to stay at Galatasaray

Nigeria international Victor Osimhen has revealed why he opted to settle for a stay with Turkish side Galatasaray despite receiving several big offers during the transfer window.

Having featured for Galatasaray last season on loan from Serie A side Napoli, the Super Eagles forward had an option to return to Italy, join a club of his choice or extend his stay in Turkey.

According to Osimhen, who had attracted interest interest from the likes of Chelsea, Al-Hilal, Arsenal, Manchester United, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain, he received several big offers but his decision to stay in Turkey was necessitated by the fact they “valued me at Galatasaray.”

“I knew in my heart where I wanted to be. Many people believed in me at this club. They valued me when I worked hard. I saw how much the fans valued me too,” the 26-year-old told reporters after Saturday’s 3-1 win against Çaykur Rizespor in the Turkish Super Lig.

“It’s a huge privilege for me to keep scoring goals at RAMS Park, on one of the biggest stages in world football, and to keep building on this momentum. My club, my fans… There is a really different understanding within the club. Whether a player makes the starting eleven or the substitutes, everyone is respected here.

“No matter who they are, everyone is respected and valued without discrimination. The difficult part was a bit financial. I received big offers from some clubs there. It would be a lie to say I wasn’t interested, but I’m happy to be at Galatasaray.”

During the fixture at RAMS Park, Osimhen was on target for the second game running, striking in the 65th minute to extend Galatasaray’s lead, shortly after Davinson Sanchez had opened the scoring.

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