TRT Spor commentator Kaya Çilingiroğlu has made a controversial claim that Argentine striker Mauro Icardi is better than Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, despite the latter's impressive goal-scoring record last season.
Çilingiroğlu's comments come as Galatasaray actively pursues making Osimhen's loan deal permanent, with reports suggesting the Turkish champions are offering the 26-year-old Nigerian international an attractive package of 25 million euros per year.
"Even if Osimhen doesn't come, there is no problem," Çilingiroğlu stated. "Mauro Icardi is there. Icardi is better than Osimhen. If I understand football, Osimhen can't get that kind of money in any other country in Europe."
The commentator further suggested that time is on Galatasaray's side in the negotiations, adding, "As time runs out, Galatasaray's hand gets stronger."
Osimhen's Impressive Season
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan from Napoli last season, netted an impressive 37 goals across all competitions. His contributions were crucial in helping the club secure both the Turkish Cup and the Turkish Super Lig title, finishing ahead of rivals Fenerbahce.
The Nigerian striker formed a formidable partnership with Icardi during his time at Galatasaray, with both players demonstrating their goal-scoring prowess throughout the season.
Transfer Speculation
Osimhen's future remains uncertain as various reports have linked him with potential moves to Saudi Arabia and other European clubs. However, Çilingiroğlu's comments suggest that Galatasaray might not be overly concerned if they fail to secure the Nigerian's signature permanently.
The Turkish club appears confident in their negotiating position, believing that the financial package they're offering might be unmatched elsewhere in Europe.
As the transfer window progresses, football fans will be watching closely to see where Osimhen's future lies and whether Galatasaray's strategy will pay off in securing one of Africa's most prolific strikers on a permanent basis.
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