Galatasaray’s star forward Victor Osimhen is hitting peak form just as transfer speculation across Europe begins to heat up, with the Nigerian striker bagging a stunning hat trick to lead the Istanbul giants to a dominant 4-0 win over Antalyaspor.
The 26-year-old, on loan from Napoli, continues to shine in the Turkish Super Lig, lifting Gala to 71 points after 27 matches — nine points clear of rivals Fenerbahçe, albeit having played one game more. His trio of goals this past weekend took his tally to 20 in just 21 league appearances, making him the division’s top scorer heading into the international break.
Osimhen’s clinical display — his first hat trick since Napoli’s 6-1 win over Sassuolo in February 2024 — came as no surprise to fans who have watched him dominate the Turkish top flight after a slow start. Despite missing the opening leg of Galatasaray’s UEFA Europa League tie with AZ Alkmaar due to suspension — a match that ended in a painful 4-1 loss — his domestic form remains electric.
His link-up with Álvaro Morata, who joined from AC Milan in January, has injected fresh life into Galatasaray’s attack. Morata also got on the scoresheet against Antalyaspor, converting from the penalty spot just before halftime. Osimhen, meanwhile, struck on 30, 45+2, and 52 minutes, with his final goal a composed finish after a slick assist from Yunus Akgün.
“We must credit the whole team and our fans,” Osimhen said post-match. “From the first whistle to the last, we played like a family. This team is built on love — not just on the field, but off it as well.”
Despite Galatasaray being out of European competition, Osimhen’s performances have kept him in the global spotlight. His goal-scoring exploits haven’t gone unnoticed by Europe’s elite clubs. Reports from Italy claim Juventus are eager to bring him back to Serie A, while Premier League giants Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all believed to be monitoring his situation. Paris Saint-Germain have also expressed interest, as they seek a top-tier centre-forward.
Osimhen’s Nigeria teammate William Troost-Ekong recently hinted at a Premier League move being likely.
“I know he’s a Chelsea fan, but he’s spoken with several top clubs,” Troost-Ekong said on talkSPORT. “He’d fit into any side. Liverpool are in the market for a striker. I can’t see him staying in Turkey beyond this season.”
If true, Galatasaray may face a tough battle to keep their star striker. Yet, with a league title in sight and silverware on the line, the Nigerian marksman has all the motivation he needs to finish the season strong — and potentially depart on the highest of notes.
Marmoush Shines, Salah Struggles in Mixed Weekend for African Stars
While Osimhen was stealing headlines in Istanbul, another African forward, Omar Marmoush, made his mark in England. The Egyptian attacker, signed by Manchester City from Eintracht Frankfurt in January for €70 million plus bonuses, scored a brilliant goal in a 2-2 draw against Brighton, ending his four-match drought.
Marmoush also won a penalty converted by Erling Haaland and showed impressive chemistry with Savinho throughout the match. His long-range strike off the post was a highlight in an otherwise frustrating day for City.
“This club feels like family,” Marmoush said after the match. “It’s always tough to settle in a new squad, but with this level of talent and coaching, it’s a privilege.”
City remain in the hunt for silverware, with an FA Cup quarterfinal against Bournemouth on the horizon.
Meanwhile, it was a forgettable weekend for Mohamed Salah. Liverpool’s talisman had little impact in the Carabao Cup final, as the Reds fell to Newcastle United. With their Champions League journey also ending against PSG, Salah now has only the Premier League title in his sights — although the Reds still hold a 12-point lead at the top.
At 32, Salah remains a key figure, but questions may arise as to whether he can still deliver in decisive knockout games.