Osimhen Dismisses Transfer Talk After Chelle’s Comments Spark Speculation

Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has moved to quell growing speculation over his future at Galatasaray after remarks by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle triggered fresh transfer rumours.

Eric Chelle had suggested that Osimhen would miss Nigeria’s forthcoming friendlies against Poland and Portugal because he was “maybe trying to change clubs”, while explaining the forward’s absence from the squad for the June fixtures.

The comments quickly fuelled speculation about a summer exit from Galatasaray, but both the Super Eagles media team and the player have since sought to clarify the situation.

In a post on Instagram, Osimhen revealed that he had spoken directly with Chelle and insisted the coach’s remarks had been misunderstood.

“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” Osimhen wrote.

“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games and never intended to create any controversy.

“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.

“He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter. Thank you for your consistent support.”

The clarification comes amid persistent reports linking the 27-year-old with a move away from the Turkish champions following another outstanding campaign.

Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s title-winning season, scoring 15 league goals and providing five assists in 22 appearances. He also impressed in the UEFA Champions League, contributing seven goals and three assists as the club reached the round of 16.

Recent reports have linked the former Manchester United target with a summer switch to Old Trafford, with claims that he heads the club’s shortlist of attacking reinforcements.

However, sources close to the player maintain that Osimhen is not actively seeking an exit and would only consider leaving if Galatasaray decide to move him on.

The Turkish giants are also understood to be in a strong negotiating position, having reportedly placed a €150m valuation on the Nigerian international, whom they signed from Napoli for €75m last summer.