Former Galatasaray vice-president, Abdurrahim Albayrak has acknowledged that duplicating the club’s record-setting acquisition of Victor Osimhen will be a challenging endeavor, despite the Turkish giants’ ongoing aspiration to compete at the pinnacle of European football.
After leading Galatasaray to a domestic double in the 2024-25 season, the Lions finalized the largest transfer in Turkish football history by securing the former African Footballer of the Year on a permanent basis in July 2025.
This transfer occurred despite significant interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League and various teams within Europe’s top five leagues.
Osimhen concluded his partnership with Napoli last summer when Galatasaray activated his release clause of 75 million euros (approximately N119 billion in Nigerian currency).
In discussing Galatasaray’s transfer strategy and long-term goals, Albayrak reflected on the influence Osimhen had following his notable arrival.
He told NTV as reported by Ajansspor, “It is in the hearts of all Galatasaray fans, but to be realistic, the teams we are facing are very strong.
“We signed Osimhen and paid 75 million euros. The entire world press was buzzing about it. He contributed a lot to Galatasaray. Paying 75 million euros a second or third time is very difficult right now.”
The former club executive recognized the financial hurdles associated with acquiring players of Osimhen’s quality.
He added, “Galatasaray will certainly make good transfers. The dream of every Galatasaray management is to win the Champions League.
“God willing, just as He granted us the UEFA Cup, He will also grant us the Champions League.”
Although he has three years remaining on his contract with Galatasaray, Osimhen has been frequently linked with a summer exit, with European powerhouses Barcelona, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Arsenal reportedly interested in obtaining his services.
