Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan has openly expressed his astonishment over the Victor Osimhen transfer saga, calling it “crazy” that the Napoli striker is set to join Galatasaray on loan, especially after being a target for Chelsea this summer.
Osimhen is widely regarded as one of Europe’s top strikers, and his name was linked with several major clubs over the past few months, including Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and the wealthy Saudi Pro League team, Al Ahli.
Given his high caliber, it’s indeed surprising, as Gundogan pointed out on Instagram following Fabrizio Romano’s update, that Osimhen is now heading to Galatasaray.
This transfer is shaping up to be one of the most unexpected moves in recent times. Osimhen has found himself with limited options after his relationship with Napoli deteriorated, ultimately leading him to accept a move to Turkey.
With the transfer window now closed for Premier League and several other major European leagues, the Nigeria international’s choices were restricted, forcing him to join a club that few would have predicted earlier this summer, or even just days ago.
Gundogan’s reaction reflects the shock many might feel, and it’s likely that some at Chelsea are wondering how they missed out on this opportunity.
If Galatasaray can afford Osimhen’s salary, it raises questions about why Chelsea couldn’t secure a deal for a top-tier striker who could have significantly strengthened Enzo Maresca’s squad.
Gundogan might also feel a sense of relief knowing that his Manchester City team won’t have to face such a formidable striker as Osimhen this season, as his presence at Stamford Bridge would have made Chelsea a much more daunting opponent.