Napoli Turn Down Liverpool Bid as Galatasaray Coach Makes Personal Appeal to Osimhen

Napoli have officially rejected Liverpool’s opening bid for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, as the summer transfer window heats up with interest from top European clubs. The Italian giants turned down what sources say was a €75 million offer from the Premier League side, signaling their determination to hold on to one of their most prized assets—or extract a much higher fee.

The 26-year-old Super Eagles star, who spent the 2024–25 season on loan at Turkish champions Galatasaray, is now at the center of an intense transfer battle. In a surprising twist, Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has reportedly made a personal phone call to Osimhen in a direct effort to convince him to return to Istanbul.

According to reports from Goal.com, Buruk reminded the striker of their successful campaign together, during which Osimhen netted 26 goals and helped the club clinch a domestic double. The coach is said to have outlined his vision for the upcoming season and reassured Osimhen of his central role should he choose to come back.

While Liverpool remain keen to bring Osimhen to Anfield as a long-term replacement for Darwin Núñez, Napoli are playing hardball. The club’s stance suggests they will not accept any bid below Osimhen’s release clause, believed to be in the region of €120 million.

Galatasaray’s efforts are being closely watched, especially given the strong relationship Osimhen has with the club and its fans following his standout season in Turkey.

As it stands, Victor Osimhen is yet to make a public comment on his future, but sources close to the player suggest he is carefully weighing his options amid interest from clubs in England, France, and Saudi Arabia.

What’s Next?

Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with Liverpool likely to return with an improved offer. Meanwhile, Galatasaray remain quietly confident they can persuade the Nigerian international to choose familiarity over fame.