In a dramatic twist to the ongoing saga surrounding Victor Osimhen’s future, Liverpool has reportedly entered the race to sign the Nigerian striker, who is currently making waves at Galatasaray. The Reds are eyeing the 26-year-old as a potential replacement for Darwin Nunez, whose future at Anfield has become uncertain amid interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.
According to sources close to Anfield Watch, Liverpool’s sporting directors, Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards, have been closely monitoring Osimhen’s career ever since his early days in European football. Edwards, in particular, has long been impressed by Osimhen’s potential, dating back to his time in Belgium and France. However, the striker’s current form in Turkey, where he has scored 13 goals and provided five assists in just 16 appearances, has sparked serious interest from top European clubs, including Liverpool.
Osimhen’s contract situation, including a release clause set to drop significantly from €120 million to €75 million in the summer, is expected to ignite a bidding war among Premier League giants, with Arsenal and Manchester United already linked to the Nigerian forward.
A Fallout with Napoli’s De Laurentiis
The intrigue surrounding Osimhen has deepened following a public fallout with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis. The feud ignited after Osimhen rejected a January move to Manchester United, an offer that would have seen him potentially involved in a swap deal with Marcus Rashford. In an interview with La Repubblica, De Laurentiis expressed his displeasure, suggesting, “Then let him stay where he is. Tell Galatasaray to take Osimhen.”
Despite the tension with Napoli, Osimhen has remained focused on his current situation at Galatasaray, where he has been enjoying a successful loan spell. In an interview after scoring a brace against Tottenham in the Europa League, Osimhen made it clear that he was committed to staying with Galatasaray until the end of the season. “I will not leave in January. I am at Galatasaray until the end of the season,” Osimhen said. “I do not know what Galatasaray and Napoli are talking about afterwards, but if they come to me, we will talk. Galatasaray is a nice club that I like very much. I am very happy at Galatasaray.”
While the striker remains happy at Galatasaray, his long-term future is uncertain, and clubs from across Europe are keeping a close eye on his next move.
Galatasaray’s Financial Challenges
Despite Osimhen’s impressive form, it is clear that Galatasaray may struggle to afford a permanent deal. Former coach Hamza Hamzaoğlu recently stated that, while the Turkish club values Osimhen’s contribution, they are unlikely to secure his services on a permanent basis due to financial constraints. “We cannot afford a permanent deal for Osimhen. His value has skyrocketed, and the current financial landscape at Galatasaray does not allow for such a deal,” Hamzaoğlu noted.
With Paris Saint-Germain having pulled out of the race, reportedly due to manager Luis Enrique’s preference for a system that does not rely on a traditional number nine, the path appears clearer for Liverpool to make a move. PSG’s exit from the race leaves the Premier League clubs—Liverpool, Manchester United, and Arsenal—positioned to battle it out for Osimhen’s signature once the summer transfer window opens.
Nunez’s Future in Question
Liverpool’s interest in Osimhen is largely fueled by uncertainty over Darwin Nunez’s future at the club. The Uruguayan forward, who joined the Reds from Benfica for a substantial €85 million, has failed to live up to expectations for some sections of the fanbase. Nunez’s form has been inconsistent, and with Saudi clubs reportedly eyeing a move for him, Liverpool is said to be preparing for a potential departure.
Anfield sources suggest that Hughes and Edwards are keen to bring in Osimhen as Nunez’s replacement, with the Nigerian striker offering a more established goal-scoring threat than the current Liverpool forward. Osimhen’s clinical finishing and proven ability in high-pressure European competitions make him an attractive proposition for Liverpool, who are aiming to strengthen their squad for next season’s title race.
Premier League Clubs Ready to Battle for Osimhen
The race for Osimhen’s signature will be fiercely contested, with Liverpool expected to face stiff competition from Manchester United and Arsenal. Both clubs have been keeping close tabs on the striker, with Manchester United reportedly exploring several attacking options for the summer transfer window. However, Osimhen’s strong form in Turkey, combined with his lower release clause in the summer, could make him a more viable option for many of Europe’s top clubs.
Arsenal, who are also looking to bolster their attacking options, have been linked to Osimhen as part of their long-term plans. The Gunners are reportedly looking for a striker who can complement their existing squad, and Osimhen’s versatility and experience in top European leagues make him a strong candidate.
Liverpool’s Plans for the Future
Should Liverpool push ahead with their plans to sign Osimhen, it would represent a major shift in their transfer strategy. After several seasons of relying on their dynamic attacking trio, the Reds could be looking to refresh their squad with a player who can offer a more direct threat in front of goal. Osimhen, who has proven himself in Ligue 1 and the Super Lig, could be the perfect fit for Jurgen Klopp’s high-pressing, counter-attacking style.
The potential acquisition of Osimhen would also mark a significant step in Liverpool’s attempts to maintain their competitiveness in both domestic and European competitions. With the current Premier League season shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent years, securing a top-class striker like Osimhen would give Liverpool a crucial edge in the race for silverware.
