Coach Buruk reveals club stance on Lille-linked Super Eagles star wanted by Osimhen at Galatasaray

Galatasaray’s head coach, Okan Buruk, has put to rest the swirling speculation regarding a potential move for Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Fenerbahce right-back, currently in the final year of his contract, has been the subject of increasing transfer interest from multiple clubs across Europe, including from the Premier League and Ligue 1.

Despite Fenerbahce’s ongoing efforts to offer Osayi-Samuel a new and improved deal to keep him at the club, speculation about his next move has intensified.

The Nigerian full-back has also been linked with Galatasaray, where his international teammate and close friend Victor Osimhen is reportedly keen on having him join the Istanbul club.

However, speaking at his pre-match press conference as per TV100, Galatasaray coach Buruk dismissed the rumors, stating,

“So far, we have had no contact or talks with Bright Osayi-Samuel. We are not currently working on a transfer.”

Nevertheless, reports continue to suggest that Osimhen, who shares a strong bond with Osayi-Samuel from their time with the Nigerian national team, has been trying to influence his friend’s move to Galatasaray.

Osimhen’s involvement could still be a factor as transfer talks heat up ahead of the January window.

However, Galatasaray face stiff competition from Lille, who are pushing to secure Osayi-Samuel’s signature.

The French club has stepped up its interest following a serious injury to their right-back, Tiago Santos.

Lille are reportedly preparing a long-term deal for Osayi-Samuel, aiming to land him for a transfer fee of around €2-2.5 million in January.

With his contract expiring at the end of the season, the French side sees a valuable opportunity to swoop in.