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Osimhen’s words put Juventus back in transfer race

Victor Osimhen, of Galatasaray, greets fans at the end of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 play-off second leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray at the Juventus Stadium in Turin, Italy, February 25, 2026. (AA Photo)
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Victor Osimhen, of Galatasaray, greets fans at the end of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 play-off second leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray at the Juventus Stadium in Turin, Italy, February 25, 2026. (AA Photo)
February 26, 2026 10:12 AM GMT+03:00

Juventus has started preparing a move for Victor Osimhen after crashing out of the Champions League against Galatasaray, with the Nigerian striker’s pre-match comments giving the Italian side fresh momentum in the transfer race, Turkish media said.

The Turin club is now evaluating options to bring Osimhen into its squad, with internal discussions accelerating in the aftermath of the European defeat, Turkish sports outlet Fanatik reported.

Osimhen opens door to Juventus

In a press conference ahead of the match on Wednesday, Osimhen acknowledged Juventus’ stature and revealed he had previously considered joining the club before moving to Galatasaray.

"Juventus is one of the most important clubs in football history. Before Galatasaray, there was also a possibility that I could play for Juventus," he said. "For me, where I am is very important. Juventus is one of the clubs where I could enjoy playing and feel that I belong. Nobody knows what will happen in the future."

Following those remarks, the 27-year-old star scored his team’s first goal against the Bianconeri in extra time, helping pave the way to the last 16 after Juventus had finished normal time with a 3–0 lead.

Victor Osimhen, of Galatasaray, greets fans at the end of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 play-off second leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray at the Juventus Stadium in Turin, Italy, February 25, 2026. (AA Photo)
Victor Osimhen, of Galatasaray, greets fans at the end of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 play-off second leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray at the Juventus Stadium in Turin, Italy, February 25, 2026. (AA Photo)

European giants track Osimhen

Osimhen is said to be already among the most closely followed players ahead of the upcoming transfer window, with Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, and Bayern Munich previously placing him at the top of their summer recruitment plans.

Juventus’ entry into the race has further intensified speculation surrounding the striker’s future, positioning him as one of the most talked-about transfer targets in European football. Despite Galatasaray’s reluctance to sell, the Turkish club could generate a record transfer fee if negotiations move forward.

The Nigerian striker has played 24 matches so far this season, scoring 16 goals and providing five assists. He is also in the race for the UEFA Champions League top scorer title, currently ranking fourth with seven goals.

February 26, 2026 10:13 AM GMT+03:00
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