Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly stepped into his club’s efforts to sign Nigerian-eligible midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu, with the Super Eagles forward said to have personally contacted the player to encourage him to move to Turkey.
According to Score Nigeria, quoting Turkish outlet Fanatik, Osimhen spoke with Ugochukwu as Galatasaray intensified negotiations to secure the midfielder’s signature ahead of the new season.
The Turkish champions are hoping to complete a loan move for the 21-year-old, who is currently with Burnley after previously joining the English club from Chelsea.
Talks progress between clubs
Negotiations between Galatasaray and Burnley are continuing, with the English club reportedly requesting that any agreement includes a mandatory purchase clause.
The clause would become active once Ugochukwu reaches a specified number of appearances during his loan spell.
Reports also indicate that Ugochukwu’s representative travelled to Istanbul to hold talks with Galatasaray officials as discussions between all parties entered an advanced stage.
Galatasaray are expected to pay a loan fee of around €5 million, while the proposed permanent transfer clause is valued at approximately €20 million.
Chelsea are also expected to receive a share of the transfer fee because of an existing clause with Burnley relating to the midfielder.
Osimhen’s influence
Osimhen is said to have played an important role in Galatasaray’s pursuit by speaking directly with Ugochukwu about the move.
The Nigeria international has become one of the club’s leading figures following his arrival in Turkey and is believed to have encouraged the Nigerian-born to join him in Istanbul.
Ugochukwu remains a highly rated young midfielder and has been linked with a future role in the Super Eagles.
Galatasaray are keen to strengthen their squad before the start of the new campaign as they prepare to defend their domestic title and compete in Europe.