Victor
Iyunade Grace
Galatasaray have turned down a €120 million offer from Atlético Madrid for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, making a clear statement that the Turkish champions intend to keep their star forward despite intense European interest. Reports from Forza Cimbom and multiple Turkish outlets say the Spanish club submitted the bid as Diego Simeone looks to reinforce his attack amid uncertainty over Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez, both of whom have been linked with moves away.
The 27-year-old only completed his permanent transfer from Napoli to Galatasaray last summer for €75 million, after an initial loan spell in Istanbul. Since then Osimhen has become the focal point of the club’s attack, and Galatasaray’s swift rejection of Atlético’s approach signals they view him as untouchable. The club reportedly responded to the bid with a simple “Sorry, we are not selling”.
Osimhen’s numbers explain why Atlético went big. In the 2025-26 season he scored 22 goals and added 8 assists in 32 appearances, powering Galatasaray to a fourth consecutive Süper Lig title. He also played a key role in their UEFA Champions League campaign, helping the team reach the round of 16. His physical presence, pace, and finishing have made him one of the most coveted No. 9s in world football.
Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek reinforced the club’s stance in an interview with Sabah, saying “Osimhen is a world-class player, and he is happy here. We have no intention to sell Osimhen”. The club sees him as central to both domestic dominance and European ambitions, and last summer’s €75 million investment plus a lucrative contract underscores that commitment.
Atlético are not alone in tracking Osimhen. Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Arsenal have all been linked with the Nigeria captain in recent months. The €120 million bid is already one of the largest ever rejected by a Turkish club, but Galatasaray’s resolve shows the financial and sporting gap between the Süper Lig and Europe’s traditional “big five” is narrowing when it comes to retaining elite talent.
For Atlético, the rejection complicates summer planning. With Sørloth drawing interest from Juventus and Álvarez monitored by Barcelona and Arsenal, Simeone’s side identified Osimhen as a primary target to lead the line. The club may return with an improved offer, but Galatasaray’s public position suggests any deal would need to be significantly above €120 million to even start a conversation.
The transfer window remains open for several more months, and Osimhen’s future will stay a major talking point. For now, though, Galatasaray’s message is firm: the Super Eagles striker is staying in Istanbul to chase a fifth straight league title and another Champions League run. ddae
