Bruno Fernandes to Galatasaray: Former Turkey International Says Signing Would Keep Victor Osimhen at RAMS Park

With the summer transfer window drawing closer and speculation mounting over Victor Osimhen‘s future at Galatasaray, a former Turkey international has identified the one signing he believes could be the key to keeping the Super Eagles striker in Istanbul.

Zeki Önder Özen, 56, has publicly urged Galatasaray to make a serious move for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes. Speaking on Turkish broadcast outlet VOLE, Özen argued that pairing the Portuguese playmaker with Osimhen would transform the club’s prospects both domestically and in the UEFA Champions League.

“With Osimhen there in attack, I can’t think of anything to say to Fernandes,” Özen said. “He’s world-class, right, one of the best in the world. This would also help Galatasaray in their hunt for success in the UEFA Champions League.”

The former Turkey international went further, suggesting Fernandes’ presence would act as a deterrent to title rivals in the Turkish Süper Lig. “In the league too, he’ll cause lots of trouble for everyone. It would deter other rivals from competing for the league title,” he added. “His addition would make Osimhen want to stay. Imagine these players competing in top form and without any injuries.”

Fernandes, 31, has one year remaining on his contract at Old Trafford, with Manchester United holding an option to extend for a further season. Despite being made available for transfer during last summer’s window, the Portuguese captain opted to remain at the club and has since delivered another strong campaign, coming close to equalling Thierry Henry‘s single-season Premier League assist record.

Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli during the 2024-25 season after a move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli collapsed. The Nigerian international has been consistently linked with a permanent exit from both Galatasaray and Napoli, with several European clubs reportedly tracking his situation ahead of the upcoming window. Reports suggest Galatasaray are keen to secure a longer-term arrangement with the striker, though his future remains unresolved.

The prospect of Fernandes linking up with Osimhen at RAMS Park would represent a significant statement of intent from the Turkish giants, who have been building their profile in European competition. Galatasaray have historically relied on marquee signings to bolster their Champions League ambitions, and according to reports, the club’s hierarchy has previously explored the possibility of combining the two players.

Whether Galatasaray can meet the financial demands of a deal for Fernandes — one of the Premier League’s most influential midfielders over the past five years — remains to be seen. Manchester United’s own uncertain trajectory under new ownership and in the transfer market could influence how the club approaches negotiations over his future this summer.