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AFCON 2025
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An intermediary involved in Galatasaray's signing of Victor Osimhen has explained how the Lions managed to sign one of the best strikers in the world
Victor Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray stunned European football, not only because of the goals that followed, but because of how the Turkish champions managed to pull off a deal many thought was impossible.
Now, intermediary George Gardi has revealed the behind-the-scenes manoeuvring, last-minute negotiations and strategic planning that made the transfer one of the most remarkable pieces of business in recent years.
How Osimhen deal was unlocked
Speaking to Sky Sports, George Gardi detailed the dramatic circumstances that led to Osimhen arriving in Istanbul.
According to him, the striker chose Galatasaray because of the long-term vision presented to him: “I think he decided to sign for the club because of the project, and the project is not only for one year.”
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Gardi revealed there was no release clause, no fixed valuation, and no straightforward path to the transfer.
But when other deals collapsed late in the window, he immediately stepped in. “I had a clear plan and only a few hours to put it into action,” he said.
In those crucial hours, he convinced Napoli to drop Osimhen’s release clause from over €100 million to €75 million, and persuaded the Super Eagles striker to extend his contract by a year, a move that enabled the structured loan agreement.
Gardi summed up the magnitude of the move, saying, “We’re talking about one of the best number nines in the world. Securing him for €75 million was an excellent piece of business for the club.”
Record-breaking first season justifies Galatasaray gamble
Galatasaray’s boldness paid off immediately. Osimhen delivered a historic season, scoring 37 goals in 41 games, shattering the club’s all-time scoring records and becoming the highest-scoring foreigner in a single campaign.
His goals fired the Istanbul giants to both the Turkish Super Lig and the Turkish Cup, turning him into a cult hero almost instantly.
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His permanent transfer in the summer of 2025 only strengthened his impact. Since returning, Osimhen has scored nine goals in 12 matches, including a remarkable six goals in three Champions League games.
He not only tops the Champions League scoring chart but also became the first Galatasaray player ever to score in eight consecutive European fixtures.