Turkish football champions Galatasaray are preparing a major winter transfer move, targeting two additional Nigerian internationals following the spectacular success of Victor Osimhen at the Istanbul club.
Nigerian Talent Becomes Winning Formula
The club's management believes their growing connection with Super Eagles players has become a crucial strategy for maintaining dominance both in the Turkish Super Lig and European competitions. Osimhen's arrival has fundamentally transformed Galatasaray's season, with his goal-scoring prowess making him a cult hero among fans and symbolizing the club's resurgence.
The 26-year-old forward's record-breaking European campaign, where he has netted six goals combined with his relentless energy, has convinced club officials that recruiting more Nigerian talent could further strengthen their squad. A club source revealed to Turkish media that Galatasaray has been particularly impressed by the mentality and hunger displayed by Nigerian players, noting their significant impact both on and off the pitch.
Midfield Reinforcement: Raphael Onyedika
Among Galatasaray's primary targets is Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika, who has developed into one of Europe's most complete young midfield talents. The 23-year-old is valued at approximately €20 million and is highly regarded for his tactical intelligence and versatility.
Onyedika's ability to operate effectively as either a deep-lying playmaker or a dynamic box-to-box midfielder makes him an ideal fit for coach Okan Buruk's system. His capacity to control game tempo and quickly recover possession has established him as a top priority for the upcoming winter transfer window.
Turkish reports indicate that Galatasaray's scouting team has been closely monitoring Onyedika since last season, believing his composed presence and exceptional work rate could perfectly balance the creativity and aggression of their current midfield setup.
Attacking Boost: Ademola Lookman
Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman represents the second Super Eagles star on Galatasaray's radar. The 28-year-old attacker has reportedly grown unsettled under coach Ivan Juric at the Italian club, making him a potential target for winter reinforcement.
Valued at around €40 million according to Transfermarkt, Lookman's creativity and eye for goal could form a devastating partnership with Osimhen. His direct running style and ability to operate across the entire frontline would provide Buruk's system with valuable versatility.
Galatasaray's transfer ambitions come amid strong domestic and European performances, including a dominant 3-0 Champions League victory over Ajax and maintaining a four-point lead over rivals Fenerbahce in the Super Lig. With UEFA regulations permitting the registration of three new players by February if the club remains in the top 24 coefficient ranking, Galatasaray plans to strengthen in defense, midfield, and attack.
In related transfer news, reigning UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly reignited their interest in Osimhen with a monumental €150 million offer. However, Galatasaray remains adamant that their star striker is not for sale, at least not for a cheap price, underscoring his immense value to the club's ongoing project.
