In a significant development for Nigerian football, Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika has reportedly given his preliminary approval for a transfer to Turkish champions Galatasaray. The move is expected to be finalized after the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations currently underway in Morocco.
Deal Agreed in Principle Ahead of Formal Talks
According to reports from Turkiye Today, the 24-year-old defensive midfielder, who is currently on international duty with Nigeria at AFCON, has communicated his willingness to make the switch to Istanbul. While no official documents have been signed, an agreement in principle is said to be in place, paving the way for formal negotiations.
Galatasaray officials are expected to initiate talks with Onyedika's current club, Club Brugge, in the coming days. The Belgian side values their Nigerian asset at approximately €25 million, a figure that reflects his crucial role and consistent performances in the Jupiler Pro League and European competitions.
However, it is believed that the Turkish giants will open discussions with a lower initial bid, potentially in the range of €10 million to €15 million. Their final offer may be influenced by outgoing transfers, with the potential sale of goalkeeper Ederson mentioned as a factor that could free up additional funds for the Onyedika deal.
The Victor Osimhen Influence
A major factor swaying Onyedika's decision is the phenomenal success of his Super Eagles teammate, Victor Osimhen, at Galatasaray. Osimhen's impact since his permanent move has been transformative.
The striker clinched the Turkish Super Lig Golden Boot, led the team to a domestic double, and was crowned the league's Most Valuable Player in his debut season. His hero status in Istanbul has made the club an immensely attractive destination for other top African talents.
The prospect of reuniting with Osimhen, with whom he shares a strong friendship in the national team setup, and competing together in the UEFA Champions League is a powerful lure for Onyedika.
What Onyedika Brings to the Turkish Champions
Raphael Onyedika's skill set aligns perfectly with Galatasaray's strategic needs. Renowned for his tenacity, ball-winning abilities, and positional intelligence, the midfielder provides essential balance and defensive solidity.
His attributes would offer crucial protection to the backline, allowing Galatasaray's attacking players, including Osimhen, greater freedom to express themselves. Having made 14 appearances for Club Brugge this season, his development in Belgium has positioned him as one of the league's most reliable defensive midfielders.
His performances for Nigeria at the ongoing AFCON 2025 will be closely watched, as a strong tournament could further strengthen Club Brugge's negotiating stance. For now, Wilfred Ndidi has been preferred in the starting lineup for the Super Eagles' opening matches.
If completed, this transfer would mark another high-profile move for a Nigerian star to Galatasaray, following the path blazed by Victor Osimhen, and would significantly bolster the Nigerian presence in the Turkish Super Lig.
