Osimhen: How Real Madrid’s election could shape Super Eagles forward’s next move

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Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has been heavily linked with a potential exit from Galatasaray ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian striker continues to attract attention from some of Europe’s elite clubs as the transfer window approaches, casting doubt over his long-term future at the Turkish champions.

The 27-year-old arrived at Galatasaray in 2024 and has since scored 59 goals in 74 appearances, helping the club win three trophies in two seasons.

Despite ongoing transfer speculation, Osimhen has repeatedly expressed his desire to remain at Galatasaray beyond this summer, while the Turkish club are also reluctant to sell their star attacker. 

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray victory celebrates after the Trendyol Super League match between Galatasaray SK and Fenerbahce SK at Rams Park Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey.
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxSeskimphotox

However, uncertainty still surrounds his future, as a substantial offer from any of the interested clubs could test Galatasaray’s resolve and force them into a change of stance.

How Florentino Pérez’s win could influence Real Madrid move for Osimhen

Spanish giants Real Madrid held their first presidential election in 20 years on Sunday, with incumbent president Florentino Pérez emerging as the winner once more.

Ahead of the election, both Pérez and his opponent Enrique Riquelme made promises regarding potential big signings if elected. While Riquelme mentioned Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and manager Jürgen Klopp, Pérez promised a major superstar signing in the region of €150 million if re-elected.

The 79-year-old was officially confirmed as president after securing 65% of the vote compared to Riquelme’s 35%, extending his tenure at the club which will now impact the club’s transfer plans this summer.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez. Copyright: xAgenciaxLOFxImago

Pérez’s re-election would also see José Mourinho return to the club as manager next season, alongside the likes of Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries and former Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté.

The superstar signing promised during the campaign is also expected to be announced in the coming days. While early reports suggested Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise as a possible target, Mourinho’s return could also signal the arrival of a traditional striker, where Osimhen enters the conversation.

The Portuguese coach has previously expressed admiration for the Nigerian forward and while no official decision has been made yet, clarity is expected later this week as Osimhen remains among the high-profile players being considered by the club.

However, if another name is eventually confirmed instead of the Super Eagles forward, it would effectively rule Real Madrid out of the race and open the door for other interested clubs to step up their pursuit.

Barcelona could also make a move if they fail to secure top target Julián Álvarez, while Atlético Madrid may enter the race depending on whether Alvarez leaves the club. Meanwhile, Manchester United and Chelsea have also registered interest ahead of any potential transfer.

Galatasaray teammates Victor Osimhen and Gabriel Sara
Galatasaray teammates Victor Osimhen and Gabriel Sara. Copyright: xSeskimphotox IMAGO

Osimhen could also remain at Galatasaray and continue his strong form with the Turkish champions if no deal materializes.

For now, the Nigerian forward still remains in the conversation to become Real Madrid’s potential “Galáctico” signing, with the Spanish club expected to make further announcements this week.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Editor Site Coordinator

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.