Raphael Onyedika: Two Milan giants blocking Super Eagles star's reunion with Osimhen

Raphael Onyedika’s hopes of reuniting with Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen at Galatasaray could depend on how negotiations unfold with two Italian giants this January.

The Turkish champions are keen to strengthen their midfield ahead of the UEFA Champions League knockout stage, but priority moves for stars based in Milan are complicating a potential deal for the Nigerian midfielder.

According to reports, Galatasaray have stepped up their January transfer activity, with Deputy Chairman Abdullah Kavukcu currently in Italy holding face-to-face talks aimed at securing at least one marquee midfield signing.

Top of the club’s wishlist is AC Milan’s Youssouf Fofana, who has been granted permission to negotiate, but the deal remains difficult.

Milan are holding out for a €40 million transfer fee, while Fofana is reportedly demanding an annual salary of €8 million, far above Galatasaray’s €5 million offer. Although negotiations are ongoing, the gap in both valuation and wages has slowed progress.

Inter Milan’s Hakan Calhanoglu is another major target. The 31-year-old has agreed to the move in principle, but Inter are unwilling to sell mid-season and are demanding €30 million.

Galatasaray’s €12–15 million proposal falls well short, leaving talks at a standstill unless the Turkish side meet Inter’s valuation or wait until the summer.

With talks for Fofana and Calhanoglu proving complex, Galatasaray have turned their attention to Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika as a strategic alternative.

The 23-year-old Nigerian, valued at around €20 million, has emerged as a serious fallback option should negotiations with the Milan-based stars collapse.

Club Brugge initially demanded €25 million, but Galatasaray have reportedly negotiated the fee down to €23 million. The Super Lig club are prepared to offer Onyedika a four-year contract, with an optional fifth year.

A move to Istanbul would see Onyedika link up with Victor Osimhen, his national team teammate, but for now, Galatasaray’s pursuit of two Milan giants continues to stand in the way of that Super Eagles reunion.