Nigeria Super Eagles and Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO
Victor Osimhen may not have kicked a ball for Galatasaray yet, but the Turkish champions are already poised to recoup a portion of his record-breaking transfer fee.
In what is expected to be a grand unveiling on Saturday, August 2, Galatasaray will present Osimhen to their fans at RAMS Park ahead of a high-profile friendly against Lazio.
The signing ceremony is tipped to generate as much as €5 million from ticket sales and official merchandise, according to Turkish outlet Fotomac.
The development is seen as a strategic financial move from a club determined not to buckle under the weight of its boldest investment yet.
Tickets for the event, which also includes the unveiling of Leroy Sané, have been priced at a premium, with the cheapest entry set at 1,300 Turkish Lira (about ₦49,000).
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Galatasaray officials anticipate a full house, with supporters eager to witness the club’s most ambitious transfer come to life.
The revenue raised would amount to roughly 7% of the total €75 million Galatasaray agreed to pay Napoli for Osimhen, considered to be one of the greatest Nigerian footballers in history. The deal comprises an upfront payment of €40 million and a further €35 million in structured instalments, with a sell-on clause also included.
The Istanbul giants have moved quickly to finalise Osimhen’s arrival, a massive transfer coup as the former Lille star was also on the radar of Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Reports from Italy confirm that all contractual details have been completed, with the striker expected to arrive in the Turkish capital by Wednesday.
Merchandise sales are also expected to soar, with Galatasaray stores preparing for a rush of demand for Osimhen-themed kits and memorabilia. The club’s leadership sees this fan-led financial drive as a key part of making the deal sustainable without jeopardising the club’s financial health.
Galatasaray’s passionate supporters, known for their fervour and loyalty, are playing a direct role in helping the club manage the costs of one of European football’s most surprising and bold transfers this summer.
Osimhen, while on loan from Napoli, smashed 37 goals and added eight assists to power Galatasaray to a historic league and cup double.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.