Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has revealed that Victor Osimhen played a key role behind the scenes in helping the club secure the signing of Nigeria-eligible midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu.
The Turkish champions recently completed a deal worth around €30 million for the highly rated midfielder, and Buruk has now explained that Osimhen’s influence extended beyond the pitch during the transfer process.
According to the Galatasaray boss, the Super Eagles striker personally contacted Ugochukwu before the deal was finalised, helping convince the midfielder that Istanbul was the right destination for the next stage of his career.
Osimhen stepped in to help
Buruk disclosed that Osimhen held direct conversations with Ugochukwu while negotiations were ongoing.
The Galatasaray coach revealed that the striker spoke with the midfielder and was actively involved in discussions aimed at helping the club complete the transfer. Buruk also confirmed that he personally communicated with the player multiple times before the move was concluded.
The revelation highlights the growing influence Osimhen now holds within the Galatasaray dressing room following his remarkable impact since arriving at the club.
Osimhen’s status continues to grow
Since joining Galatasaray, the Nigerian forward has become one of the most important figures at the club.
His goalscoring exploits, leadership qualities and popularity among supporters have elevated him into a central figure within the team’s project. The striker has consistently been linked with Europe’s elite clubs, but Galatasaray continue to view him as a cornerstone of their ambitions.
The fact that he was involved in persuading a major transfer target to join the club underlines the respect he commands among players across Europe.
Huge expectations for Ugochukwu
Galatasaray believe Ugochukwu can become a major addition to their midfield.
The 22-year-old arrives with experience from top European leagues and is expected to strengthen a squad already packed with quality ahead of another title challenge and European campaign.
The transfer carries additional interest because Ugochukwu remains eligible to represent the Super Eagles despite featuring for France at youth level.
Another sign of Galatasaray’s ambition
The signing of Ugochukwu is viewed as another statement of intent from the Turkish giants as they continue building a squad capable of competing at the highest level.
With Osimhen playing an active role in recruitment and Buruk leading an ambitious project, Galatasaray are showing they are determined to remain a force both domestically and in European competition.
The latest revelation also offers a glimpse into Osimhen’s growing leadership role off the field, proving that his influence at Galatasaray extends far beyond scoring goals.
