Galatasaray president denies salary arrears claims involving Osimhen
Dursun Ozbek, president of Galatasaray, has dismissed reports that the club owes Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen and other players outstanding salaries.
The club chief described the allegations as false and damaging, insisting that Galatasaray has met all its financial commitments in line with contractual agreements despite the pressures that come with high-profile signings and competing on multiple fronts.
Speculation intensified after claims by sections of the Turkish media suggested the league leaders were struggling to meet wage demands, with Osimhen reportedly the club’s highest-paid player. However, Ozbek rejected the reports, stressing that Galatasaray remains financially disciplined.
“If players don’t receive their salaries for two or three months, they won’t play,” he said, adding that all bonuses and incentive clauses are paid on time. He maintained that the club has not defaulted on any payment.
Meanwhile, former Super Eagles forward Jonathan Akpoborie has backed Osimhen to succeed at Bayern Munich amid transfer speculation linking the striker with the Bundesliga champions. Akpoborie believes Osimhen’s early development in Germany gives him an advantage should a move materialise.
Reports indicate Bayern are considering Osimhen as a potential long-term successor to England captain Harry Kane, whose contract runs until 2027. Head coach Vincent Kompany is also said to have monitored the striker since his early career days in Belgium.
However, securing Osimhen’s signature could prove difficult. Galatasaray converted his initial loan into a permanent €75 million deal last summer and have him under contract until June 2029. The club has shown no indication of wanting to sell.
French champions Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly no longer pursuing the forward due to his high valuation and salary expectations, while interest from the Saudi Pro League has emerged, though Osimhen is believed to prefer remaining in Europe.
The 26-year-old has been in impressive form this season, scoring 17 goals in 25 appearances, including seven in the UEFA Champions League, where Galatasaray have reached the round of 16 for the first time in 12 years and are set to face Liverpool in the next round.
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