Okan Buruk Reveals Striker’s Commitment to Stay Until Season’s End Despite Transfer Provision
Galatasaray’s technical director, Okan Buruk, has confirmed that Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen’s loan agreement from Napoli contains a clause allowing him to move to another club during the January transfer window. Buruk made this revelation during an interview on the club’s official website on Sunday, addressing the growing speculation surrounding Osimhen’s future.
Despite the clause, Buruk expressed confidence in the 25-year-old striker’s commitment to remain with the Turkish champions until the end of the season. He said, “Osimhen has the intention of staying here until the end of the season. He also wants to stay; he said the same thing at the beginning. There is a clause about transfers in January. This clause has different things. The important thing is the player. The player who decides. That’s why Osimhen says he will stay here.”
Buruk recounted the complexities of securing Osimhen’s services, noting that initial discussions regarding the transfer appeared unrealistic, particularly following talks with Argentine forward Mauro Icardi. The Galatasaray coach provided insight into how the club’s pursuit unfolded, including meetings in Milan and crucial discussions with the club’s transfer committee and president.
“We went to Milan. I go there when I have permission. I lived there for three years. I know the place; it’s food and drink… Gardi is my friend. We didn’t talk about football. We just sat there and had dinner. We met for two days,” Buruk said. He explained that they evaluated the situation following a match against Adana Demirspor, leading to final approval from the club president.
Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray was finalized on the last day of the summer transfer window after last-minute negotiations with Chelsea and Al Ahly fell through. Since joining the Istanbul club, Osimhen has adapted quickly, registering eight goals and four assists in just nine appearances across all competitions.
The striker’s impressive form has fueled interest from multiple European clubs, but Buruk reiterated that Osimhen’s current focus remains on helping Galatasaray achieve their goals this season. Whether or not the January clause will come into play remains a point of speculation, but the Turkish champions appear hopeful of retaining their star forward’s services for the entire campaign.
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