Osimhen’s injury record behind lack of €100m bids, Turkish journalist claims

Fresh insight has emerged into why some of Europe’s biggest football clubs are reportedly reluctant to meet Galatasaray’s valuation for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, despite sustained interest from several elite teams.

Respected Turkish journalist Mehmet Özcan has claimed that concerns over Osimhen’s availability and inability to consistently complete full seasons are discouraging clubs from committing to a transfer fee exceeding €100 million.

Speaking in comments quoted by Turkish broadcaster A Spor, Özcan said the striker’s failure to reach the 50-match mark in a single season has become a major consideration for Europe’s top clubs as they weigh the financial risks of signing him.

“Osimhen’s inability to reach 50 matches during the season is one of the reservations of Europe’s elite clubs,” Özcan said.

“This is what is preventing clubs from making a three-digit transfer fee investment.”

The comments come amid intense speculation over Osimhen’s future, with the Nigeria international widely expected to attract interest during the current transfer window.

The latest remarks follow reports that Galatasaray recently turned down a €60 million offer from English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, insisting the bid fell well short of the club’s valuation.

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The Turkish champions are believed to value the prolific striker at more than €120 million, reflecting his importance to the club and his reputation as one of Europe’s most clinical forwards.

Galatasaray are reportedly unwilling to sanction the departure of the 27-year-old unless their asking price is met.

Despite concerns over his fitness record, Osimhen remains one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.

The former Napoli forward has been linked with several European heavyweights, including Barcelona, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, Manchester United, and Juventus.

However, no club has so far submitted an offer matching Galatasaray’s valuation, fuelling speculation that potential buyers are weighing the risks associated with a high-value transfer.

While Osimhen has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most lethal attackers, recurring injury setbacks have occasionally disrupted his campaigns, limiting his appearances across multiple seasons.

According to Özcan, clubs are increasingly placing greater emphasis on player availability when considering record-breaking transfer fees, especially for deals that could exceed the €100 million mark.

The journalist suggested that although there is little doubt about Osimhen’s quality, concerns over whether he can consistently remain fit throughout a demanding season continue to influence negotiations.

Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray from Napoli and has helped the Turkish giants secure two Super Lig titles, remains under contract with the club.

With the summer transfer window still open, the Nigerian forward’s future is expected to remain one of the most closely watched stories in European football, as interested clubs continue to assess whether to meet Galatasaray’s valuation or pursue alternative attacking options.