Turkish journalist claims Super Eagles striker is Mourinho’s primary target for Bernabéu rebuild.
A stunning transfer bombshell has dropped from Turkey: newly appointed Real Madrid manager José Mourinho wants Victor Osimhen at the Santiago Bernabéu, and the deal could cost a staggering €150 million.
Turkish football commentator Ertem Şener made the explosive claim, stating that Mourinho has specifically identified the Nigerian international as his top striker target as he prepares for his second spell in charge of Los Blancos.
“I think there’s a possibility Osimhen might leave Galatasaray. I heard Mourinho wants Osimhen at Real Madrid,” Şener said, speaking via Turkish outlet habersarikirmizi.com.
The timing and figures have fueled intense speculation. Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, who recently won re-election, hinted during his campaign that he had already agreed on a deal for a mystery player worth €150 million.
“Florentino Perez said during the election, ‘I’ve agreed a deal with a player for 150 million Euros.’ Galatasaray is also asking for that amount for Osimhen,” Şener revealed.
The commentator went a step further, directly challenging Galatasaray supporters: “I’m asking the Galatasaray fans here. Florentino Perez sent 150 million euros and said, ‘I’m buying Victor Osimhen,’ what do you say?”
Tactical Fit with Mourinho
The potential move makes tactical sense for Mourinho, who has built his most successful teams around powerful, mobile center-forwards. Throughout his career, the Portuguese manager has relied on physical strikers like Didier Drogba at Chelsea and Diego Costa — and Osimhen fits that mold perfectly.
The Nigerian’s combination of explosive pace, physical strength, aerial ability, and relentless pressing mirrors the profile Mourinho has consistently demanded from his attacking spearhead.
Galatasaray’s Stance
Galatasaray, however, is not eager to part with their star asset. The Turkish champions triggered Osimhen’s €75 million release clause from Napoli last summer, securing him on a permanent deal that runs through the 2028-2029 season.
The financial commitment has been substantial — Osimhen earns a guaranteed annual salary of €15 million, supplemented by loyalty bonuses and image rights, bringing Galatasaray’s total commitment to approximately €159 million over four years.
Galatasaray vice-president Abdullah Kavukcu has previously stated he “wouldn’t sell him for €150 million,” though he acknowledged such decisions ultimately rest with the club president.
Insider Haluk Yürekli has suggested the only scenario in which Osimhen departs is if the player personally requests a move. “Galatasaray has no intention of selling Victor Osimhen under any circumstances, regardless of the figures involved,” Yürekli said. “There is only one possibility for a departure: if Osimhen personally informs Galatasaray that he wants to leave. Only then could this matter be considered. In such a case, negotiations would start at 150 million Euros.”
Osimhen’s Stellar Form
Osimhen has been in scintillating form for Galatasaray, firing the club to the Super Lig title with 15 goals and five assists in 22 league appearances. He also made his mark in the UEFA Champions League, contributing seven goals and three assists. Across all competitions, he recorded 22 goals and eight assists in 33 matches.
His performances have attracted interest from across Europe, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Atletico Madrid all linked to the 27-year-old.
Historical Context
A move at €150 million would rank among the most expensive transfers in football history and would make Osimhen the first Super Eagles player ever to represent Real Madrid.
Mourinho returned to Madrid this summer on a three-year contract running until June 2029. His previous stint from 2010 to 2013 delivered the 2011/12 La Liga title with a record 100 points, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. He returns to a club that has gone two seasons without a major trophy.
For now, the Osimhen-to-Madrid speculation remains unconfirmed by all parties. But with Mourinho at the helm and Pérez’s €150 million election hint, this is a story that will develop throughout the summer transfer window.
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