Former Galatasaray midfielder Taylan Antalyalı has expressed surprise at Victor Osimhen's decision to join the Turkish club permanently, stating he never expected the Nigerian international to choose Turkey over Premier League giants like Chelsea.
Osimhen, who spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, is now finalizing a permanent transfer to the Turkish Super Lig champions despite previous strong interest from several Premier League clubs.
"I was surprised by Victor Osimhen's arrival last season. I think it was incredible that Osimhen came to Türkiye," Antalyalı told A Spor, as reported by habersarikirmizi.
BenriNews reports that Chelsea had shown significant interest in the Nigerian striker last summer but failed to meet his personal demands, which ultimately led to the collapse of the potential deal. This opened the door for Galatasaray to secure the services of the prolific forward.
Osimhen's impact in Turkey has been immediate and substantial. The Super Eagles striker finished as the Super Lig's top scorer during his loan spell last season, cementing his status as one of the most lethal forwards in European football.
The permanent transfer is being regarded as a major coup for Galatasaray, with reports indicating that Osimhen himself expressed a desire to continue his career in Turkey rather than pursue opportunities with Premier League clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, or Chelsea.
According to Turkish media, the deal makes Osimhen the most expensive player in the history of Turkish football, highlighting the significance of this transfer for both the player and the Turkish Super Lig.
Osimhen had previously stated his reasons for wanting to return to Galatasaray permanently, citing the club's passionate fanbase and his desire to continue the successful relationship that began during his loan spell.
For Nigerian football fans, this move represents an interesting career choice for one of the country's biggest football stars, who has opted for continued success in Turkey rather than testing himself in the Premier League.
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