With Victor Osimhen’s future still undecided, Turkish champions Galatasaray appear to be exploring alternative attacking options, signaling a potential shift in their transfer priorities. The club has reportedly identified Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku as a summer target, amid growing speculation that Osimhen may not remain in Istanbul beyond his current loan spell.
Osimhen’s Sensational Spell in Turkey
Victor Osimhen, on loan from Italian side Napoli, made an immediate and devastating impact during his time in Turkey. The Nigerian international spearheaded Galatasaray’s attack with electrifying consistency, netting 37 goals and registering eight assists in just 41 appearances across all competitions. His contribution proved pivotal in Galatasaray securing both the Super Lig title and the Turkish Cup, with Osimhen also finishing as the league’s top scorer with 26 goals.
Despite his stellar performance, Osimhen’s long-term future remains unclear. His loan deal with Galatasaray is set to expire later this month, and although the club remains hopeful of retaining him on a permanent basis, uncertainties surrounding his ambitions and suitors from bigger markets have complicated the situation.
Galatasaray Prepare for Life After Osimhen
According to Turkish outlet Fanatik, Galatasaray are not waiting idly for Osimhen’s decision. The club is actively making contingency plans, with a clear eye on Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku as a potential replacement should Osimhen depart.
Nkunku, a versatile French attacker, has struggled to find his footing at Stamford Bridge since joining from RB Leipzig in 2023 for a fee of £50.6 million. Though he has shown flashes of brilliance, injuries and tactical reshuffles limited him to just nine Premier League starts in the 2024/25 season.
Nevertheless, Nkunku impressed in European competition, contributing five goals and three assists during Chelsea’s successful UEFA Conference League campaign. But with just six goals in 38 Premier League appearances, his status at the club appears tenuous.
Chelsea Likely to Sanction Nkunku Exit
Despite Nkunku having four years left on his contract, Chelsea are reportedly open to letting him go, provided they receive a satisfactory offer. Galatasaray see the 27-year-old as an ideal fit for their fast, attacking style of play, and are said to be preparing an official bid.
Given Chelsea’s evolving squad strategy and the imminent £30 million signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, the Blues may not stand in Nkunku’s way if Galatasaray formalize their interest. The Frenchman’s exit could free up space in a crowded forward line and help Chelsea balance their books amid Financial Fair Play concerns.
The Uncertain Road Ahead for Osimhen
Meanwhile, Osimhen’s career trajectory remains the subject of intense speculation. Although Galatasaray would love to retain him, Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United are believed to be monitoring his situation closely. However, Chelsea’s impending signing of Delap suggests that their interest may have cooled slightly.
More compelling, perhaps, is the reported advanced negotiation between Osimhen and a Saudi Pro League heavyweight, with the Middle Eastern club poised to offer a financial package far exceeding what either English side can match. If that move materializes, it could end Galatasaray’s hopes of keeping their star striker.
Nkunku: A Worthy Successor?
If Osimhen does leave, Nkunku would bring a different attacking dynamic to Galatasaray. While not a traditional center-forward, his ability to operate across the front line, create chances, and find space could prove valuable in the Turkish league. His technical skill, intelligent movement, and European pedigree align well with Galatasaray’s ambitions to remain dominant domestically and progress deeper in Europe.
Moreover, Nkunku may view Galatasaray as the ideal platform to revive his career, regain confidence, and reassert himself as one of Europe’s elite attackers. The move could offer more guaranteed playing time and the opportunity to become the centerpiece of a team chasing silverware.
Final Thoughts
As Galatasaray enters a pivotal transfer window, the Osimhen-Nkunku situation could define their summer. While fans hope to see the Nigerian talisman stay, the club’s proactive pursuit of Nkunku signals a realistic approach to the uncertainties of modern football.
Should Osimhen move on—whether to England or Saudi Arabia—Galatasaray’s ability to attract a high-profile player like Nkunku will be a statement of intent. In either scenario, the Turkish champions are making it clear: they won’t be caught unprepared.
