Osimhen transfer news: What Gardi’s Madrid mission and Galatasaray meeting really mean

Victor Osimhen’s next possible destination has taken another interesting turn after his representative, George Gardi, was seen in Madrid during the early weeks of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

Gardi is the same football intermediary who played a major role in bringing the Super Eagles striker to Galatasaray. His visit to the Spanish capital is seen as a sign that talks over a possible move to Atletico Madrid have entered a more serious stage, with direct meetings now taking place instead of informal discussions. It had earlier been thought that Atletico were no longer interested in signing the former Napoli forward.

Reports suggest Atletico are determined to sign a top-class striker, especially with uncertainty surrounding the future of Julian Alvarez. If the Argentine eventually leaves, Atletico would have the financial room to push for Osimhen.

Galatasaray, however, are refusing to make things easy. The Turkish champions reportedly turned down an opening verbal package worth around €120 million and are said to value the Nigerian much higher, with figures between €140 million and €150 million mentioned as the level that could force them into negotiations.

The race is also becoming more competitive because a Saudi Arabian club has reportedly tabled a similar €120 million offer, giving Gardi extra bargaining power as discussions continue.

Why Galatasaray believe Osimhen is staying

While transfer talks continue behind the scenes, Galatasaray remain convinced that Osimhen will still be leading their attack next season.

According to Turkish journalist Ali Naci Küçük, the club’s confidence grew after the Nigeria international held a video meeting with senior club officials and head coach Okan Buruk just a few days ago.

During the discussion, Osimhen was reportedly updated on Galatasaray’s plans for the new season, including the team’s preparations and preseason programme. He is also expected to report for the club’s training camp, another sign that he remains fully committed.

Küçük said the Nigerian has made it clear that he is not thinking about leaving the club. He added that Osimhen has developed a strong emotional connection with Galatasaray that goes beyond financial rewards.

One example of that bond is Osimhen’s relationship with a Nigerian family living in Istanbul. The striker reportedly arranged for the family to prepare traditional Nigerian meals for him throughout the season and has promised to support them financially.

That commitment has reassured Galatasaray officials and coach Okan Buruk, who now believe keeping Osimhen could be as important as making a major new signing ahead of the new campaign.