Galatasaray Offer Osimhen No. 9 Shirt, Captaincy to Fend Off European Giants
Turkish champions Galatasaray are reportedly preparing an ambitious package aimed at convincing Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen to remain in Istanbul amid growing interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs ahead of the 2026/27 season.
As part of the club’s retention strategy, Galatasaray are set to hand Osimhen the iconic No. 9 jersey, a symbolic gesture designed to reinforce his status as the team’s leading figure.
The Nigerian international has worn the No. 45 shirt since arriving from Napoli, as Argentine forward Mauro Icardi retained the No. 9 jersey during their time together at the club. However, with Icardi expected to leave at the expiration of his contract this summer, the shirt is set to become available.
Club officials reportedly view the jersey as a powerful symbol of trust and leadership, and intend to offer it directly to Osimhen as part of efforts to secure his long-term future.
The 27-year-old striker has attracted significant attention across Europe following another impressive campaign. Manchester United, under manager Michael Carrick, are said to have identified Osimhen as a priority target as they seek a proven goalscorer for their return to the UEFA Champions League. Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Chelsea have also been linked with the Nigerian star.
Galatasaray, who completed Osimhen’s permanent signing from Napoli last year in a Turkish transfer-record deal worth €75 million, are determined to keep hold of their prized asset. The club is believed to have placed a valuation of between €130 million and €150 million on the striker and has already resisted approaches from several top European sides.
Beyond the coveted No. 9 shirt, Galatasaray are also considering handing Osimhen the captain’s armband following Icardi’s expected departure. The move would further underline the club’s belief in the Nigerian as the cornerstone of its future ambitions.
Turkish football pundit Ali Naci Kucuk recently revealed that club officials see Osimhen as the natural leader of the squad and believe the opportunity to captain a major club could prove more appealing than joining teams where leadership roles are already occupied by established figures.
Together, the captaincy and the No. 9 jersey represent Galatasaray’s strongest effort yet to build an emotional and symbolic connection between Osimhen and the club, extending beyond financial incentives and contractual commitments.
Osimhen enjoyed another productive season, scoring 15 league goals and providing five assists in 22 appearances. He also contributed seven goals and three assists in 10 UEFA Champions League matches before Galatasaray’s round-of-16 exit to Liverpool.
His performances have played a pivotal role in the club’s successive Süper Lig title triumphs, further cementing his status as one of the most influential players in Turkish football.
By Peter Akinbo of the Punch