Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has revealed that he came close to joining Juventus before sealing a permanent move to Galatasaray, ahead of both clubs’ UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off clash on Tuesday.
Osimhen completed his permanent transfer to Galatasaray from Napoli last summer after an impressive loan spell with the club. The Nigerian striker has continued his fine form this season, registering 15 goals and three assists in 22 appearances across all competitions.
His impact has also extended to Europe. In the UEFA Champions League, the 27-year-old has scored six goals in six matches and is closing in on Galatasaray’s record for most goals in a single campaign in the competition. The current record stands at eight goals.
Speaking with Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of the crucial encounter against Juventus at RAMS Park, Osimhen confirmed that a move to the Italian giants had once been on the cards but was ultimately blocked.
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“I could have joined Juventus, yes. Juve wanted to sign me but Napoli president De Laurentiis didn’t want to sell me to Juventus,” the striker revealed. “For sure, Juventus are a top club. When Juventus call you, you listen,” he added.
Despite the missed opportunity, Osimhen expressed his deep affection for his current club and surroundings in Istanbul.
“I am at a club and city I absolutely love. I’ve been lucky to find Galatasaray on my way. There’s nothing similar to Gala and the love from the fans.”
Osimhen enjoyed immediate success in his first season with the Turkish giants, leading them to both the Turkish Super Lig and Turkish Cup titles. Now, his focus has shifted to continental ambitions.
“We did great in Türkey. Now it’s time to show our quality in Europe,” he said.
Galatasaray will host Juventus at RAMS Park on Wednesday for the first leg of the play-off tie, with the decisive return fixture scheduled to take place in Turin next week.
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