“I can confirm” – Turkish club Istanbulspor react to Victor Osimhen’s buyout plan

Turkish club Istanbulspor have reacted to growing rumours that Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is planning to buy the TFF 1. Lig campaigners, Afrik-Foot reports.

The rumours quickly gained attention after claims emerged that the Galatasaray forward was preparing a major investment in the Turkish second division side. It was also suggested that Osimhen wanted to use the club as a platform to develop young Nigerian talents and help them reach European football.

However, Istanbulspor president Ecmel Faik Sarıalioğlu has now addressed the situation and made it clear that there has been no official contact.

“We’ve seen reports that Osimhen is going to buy Istanbulspor. But as the club president, I can confirm we haven’t received any official confirmation.”

That short but firm response shows that, for now, the reports remain only speculation. There has been no formal approach, no negotiations, and no confirmed offer from the Nigerian striker or his representatives.

Istanbulspor is one of Turkey’s historic clubs, founded in 1926 by students of Istanbul High School. The club enjoyed success in its early years, including winning the Turkish championship in 1932. Over time, it became one of the well-known teams in Istanbul, although still behind the traditional giants like Beşiktaş, Galatasaray, and Fenerbahçe.

Despite its long history, the club has faced ups and downs, including relegation from the Turkish top flight in the 2004–05 season. Ownership has also changed hands over the years, adding to its complex story.

With Osimhen’s name linked to the club, Istanbulspor suddenly finds itself back in the spotlight, even if the club insists there is nothing concrete yet.

Victor Osimhen’s football plans

The takeover rumours did not come out of nowhere. They followed comments reportedly made by Victor Osimhen during a livestream conversation with Nigerian entertainer Carter Efe.

During the chat, the 27-year-old striker spoke openly about his desire to invest in football. Already known for putting money into real estate in Nigeria and abroad, Osimhen explained that he now wants to give back to the sport that made him famous.

He revealed plans that go beyond simply owning a club. According to him, the idea is to build a full development system connecting Nigeria and Turkey.

Osimhen said he wants to acquire a Turkish second-division team and create a Nigerian partner club that would compete in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). The goal is to discover young talents at grassroots level in Nigeria, develop them locally, and then move them to Europe through the Turkish club.

This vision is deeply personal. Having grown up in Lagos, Osimhen understands how difficult it is for young players to get opportunities. His aim is to make that journey easier by creating a clear pathway from Nigeria to European football.

The former Napoli striker, who reportedly earns around €21 million per year, is now looking beyond his playing career and thinking about long-term impact.

For now, though, Istanbulspor have made their position clear: there is no official deal on the table.