DistantNews
🇳🇬 Nigeria /Sports

PSG Intensify Chase for €150m Osimhen

From The Punch · (1h ago) English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly intensifying efforts to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Galatasaray.
  • Galatasaray has set a steep €150 million asking price for Osimhen, who is under contract until 2029.
  • PSG seeks a physical striker to complement their squad, with other top European clubs also monitoring Osimhen's situation.

Paris Saint-Germain is making a serious play for Nigerian sensation Victor Osimhen, signaling a significant move in the European transfer market. Reports indicate the French champions are willing to negotiate Galatasaray's hefty €150 million valuation, underscoring Osimhen's immense value and the club's determination to secure his signature. Galatasaray, however, holds a strong hand with Osimhen contracted until 2029, making it clear that any deal hinges on their price being met in full.

Osimhen is a complete striker. He does not fit the classic number nine role, nor is he only a penalty-box striker. He is an all-round player; he can play with his back to goal, he can deal with tight defences, and he can also operate as a second striker.

— Mithat HalisDescribing Victor Osimhen's versatile playing style and suitability for top clubs.

The pursuit by PSG is largely driven by manager Luis Enrique's tactical vision. He is actively seeking a striker with a more imposing physical presence and direct playing style, a profile Osimhen fits perfectly. This search is further amplified by the uncertainty surrounding Gonçalo Ramos' future at the club, creating a clear need for a traditional number nine. The interest from PSG is not isolated; Spanish outlet Diario AS reports that Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Juventus are all keeping a close watch on the Nigerian forward's status.

FIFA-licensed agent Mithat Halis weighed in on the transfer saga, specifically highlighting Osimhen's potential fit at Real Madrid. Halis argued that Osimhen possesses the all-around skills—ability to play with his back to goal, break down tight defenses, and even operate as a second striker—that Real Madrid has lacked since Karim Benzema's departure. He believes Osimhen's signing would allow Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior to play in their preferred winger roles, maximizing their effectiveness.

He also contributes defensively. All these qualities point to the type of player Real Madrid need. The club have not had a centre-forward since Karim Benzema. If they sign Osimhen, both Mbappé and Vinicius will play in their natural positions as wingers and be more effective.

— Mithat HalisElaborating on why Osimhen would be an ideal fit for Real Madrid's tactical needs.

Despite the swirling transfer rumors, Osimhen himself has consistently expressed contentment at Galatasaray. He has described the club as feeling like home and has lauded the unparalleled support from the Galatasaray faithful, calling them the best fans he has encountered in his career. His remarkable record of 57 goals and 16 assists in 73 appearances for the Turkish giants speaks volumes about his impact and why he remains one of Europe's most coveted forwards.

Everything here is on another level. Galatasaray fans show you their affection both at away matches and in your private life. They are the best supporters I have seen in my entire career.

— Victor OsimhenExpressing his happiness and appreciation for the Galatasaray fans and his experience at the club.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.