By Esther Ososanya
As Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen inches closer to a dramatic switch from Napoli to Turkish giants Galatasaray, a surprising insider has offered a rare glimpse into both Osimhen’s personal desire and the flamboyant dealings of Napoli’s top boss.
Gökhan İnler, current technical director at Udinese and a former Napoli midfielder, has revealed that Osimhen has long dreamed of wearing the red and yellow shirt of Galatasaray.
Speaking to newsmen, İnler also shared a bizarre tale involving Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis, who once made him wear a lion mask at his own unveiling, a testament to the film mogul’s unconventional style of managing player transfers.
Osimhen’s Heart Set on Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen, 26, has been at the centre of a heated transfer saga this summer.
The Nigerian forward, who previously spent a brief loan spell at Galatasaray, is now reportedly set to join the Istanbul club permanently, with final talks nearing completion.
According to İnler, the move is not just a strategic club decision; it’s a long-time personal goal for the Super Eagles striker. “I know Victor Osimhen well; he always wanted Galatasaray.”
İnler told newsmen. “When the signing happened, we should congratulate Galatasaray. It’s a really big transfer. I hope it happens soon.”
Osimhen, who helped Napoli win the Serie A title in the 2022/23 season, has been linked with multiple Premier League and Saudi clubs in recent months. However, Galatasaray has now emerged as the frontrunner in what would be one of the biggest transfers in the Turkish Süper Lig’s recent history.
Aurelio De Laurentiis: The Showman Behind the Desk
İnler didn’t just stop at congratulating Galatasaray. He also pulled back the curtain on the dramatic and sometimes awkward theatrics employed by Napoli’s long-time president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, during major transfers.
Sharing his own personal experience, İnler recalled how De Laurentiis made him wear a lion mask during his unveiling as a Napoli player.
“Aurelio De Laurentiis, as I know him, never gives up until the last minute,” İnler said. “My transfer was difficult too, going from Udinese to Napoli. He made me wear a lion mask at the signing ceremony, even though I did not want it. The president insisted on it.”
READ ALSO: Napoli Gives Galatasaray Deadline to Finalize Osimhen Deal
Known for his background in film and media, De Laurentiis has often blurred the lines between football management and theatrical production, an approach that can be both captivating and controversial.
Napoli Losing Grip as Galatasaray Close In
Despite Napoli’s public posturing to retain or redirect Osimhen’s future, İnler’s comments suggest the player has already mentally committed to his move.
Sources close to the deal indicate that Galatasaray are finalising personal terms and performance clauses and could announce the signing in the coming days. The Turkish side sees Osimhen as a marquee name capable of restoring their dominance both in the domestic league and on the European stage.
Osimhen is expected to slot into Galatasaray’s attacking setup alongside Mauro Icardi, with fans already dreaming of a lethal partnership that could redefine the club’s strike force.
A Career at a Crossroads
For Osimhen, the transfer marks another pivotal turn in a career that began in the slums of Olusosun, Lagos, and soared through stints in Belgium, France, and Italy.
After overcoming injuries and criticism, the Nigerian forward now finds himself not only at the peak of his powers but also in full control of his destiny.
If the move is confirmed, Osimhen will become one of the highest-paid players in Turkish football history, with endorsement potential likely to skyrocket across African and Middle Eastern markets.
With Gökhan İnler’s surprising revelations and Galatasaray’s relentless pursuit, it appears only a matter of time before the curtain falls on Osimhen’s time at Napoli.
If his dream of joining Galatasaray was ever in doubt, İnler’s testimony has now made it clear: this is not just a transfer; it’s a homecoming of the heart.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
