Victor Osimhen scored for Galatasaray against Villarreal, but the 2-1 defeat has renewed questions about the club’s transfer plans and the striker’s future.
Galatasaray lost 2-1 to Villarreal on August 8, 2026, in their final pre-season match before the new Turkish Super Lig campaign. Ayoze Pérez put Villarreal ahead from the penalty spot before Osimhen equalised. Georges Mikautadze restored Villarreal’s lead before half-time.
Victor Osimhen Transfer Questions Return
The defeat has renewed attention on the Victor Osimhen transfer story.
Galatasaray signed Osimhen permanently from Napoli in 2025 after his loan spell at the club. The Turkish champions paid €75 million for the Nigeria international.
Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek said in May that the club did not intend to sell Osimhen. Reports have continued to link the striker with European clubs, while Turkish reports have put a €150 million valuation on him.
No transfer away from Galatasaray has been confirmed.
Osimhen Scores In Another Galatasaray Defeat
Osimhen’s goal against Villarreal followed Galatasaray’s earlier pre-season defeats against Monza and Venezia.
The Nigerian striker played during the pre-season programme and scored Galatasaray’s only goal against Villarreal.
He scored 22 goals and provided eight assists in 33 appearances across competitions during his first permanent season with Galatasaray, according to Nigerian reports.
Galatasaray Fans Demand More Transfers
The defeats have fuelled calls from Galatasaray supporters for more signings.
Fans called for midfield and creative reinforcements after the Monza defeat. They continued to demand additions before the start of the new season.
Özbek said the club was working on further signings and urged supporters not to worry about the squad.
Why The Victor Osimhen Transfer Remains A Major Story
Galatasaray’s €75 million purchase gave the club control of Osimhen’s future after his season-long loan from Napoli.
The reported €150 million valuation has since set a much higher figure for any potential sale.
European clubs have continued to feature in reports about Osimhen, but Galatasaray have maintained that they do not want to sell him.
What Next For Osimhen?
Osimhen remains a Galatasaray player after the Villarreal defeat.
The Nigerian striker will now prepare for the start of the Turkish Super Lig campaign as Galatasaray continue their transfer business.
