Barcelona Target Victor Osimhen Responds After Chelle’s Galatasaray Exit Comment

Barcelona Target Victor Osimhen Responds After Chelle’s Galatasaray Exit Comment Victor Osimhen has moved to clarify speculation surrounding his future after comments made by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle suggested the striker could be on his way out of Galatasaray, a situation that quickly triggered transfer rumours linking him with top European clubs including Barcelona.

The Nigerian forward, who has been strongly linked with a potential move to FC Barcelona in recent transfer reports, addressed the situation directly and dismissed claims that he is preparing an immediate exit from the Turkish champions. According to Osimhen, the interpretation of Chelle’s remarks has been exaggerated and taken out of context, insisting there is no internal crisis or confirmed plan for him to leave the club at this stage. The controversy began after Eric Chelle explained his squad selection decisions for upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, suggesting that Osimhen could be involved in a summer transfer and therefore should not be risked while negotiating his future. His comments were widely interpreted as confirmation that the striker was preparing to leave Istanbul, sparking fresh transfer talk across Europe. The remarks quickly intensified rumours linking Osimhen with elite clubs such as Barcelona, who are reportedly monitoring attacking options as part of long-term squad planning.Osimhen has since stepped in to calm the situation, revealing that he personally contacted Chelle to clarify what was said and to prevent further misunderstanding. He insisted that Chelle respects Galatasaray and did not intend to create controversy, urging fans and media to ignore the growing wave of speculation surrounding his future.The striker’s statement has been widely interpreted as an attempt to stabilise the narrative around his career, especially amid growing transfer attention from clubs across Europe. Barcelona links continue despite denial Despite Osimhen’s clarification, reports continue to associate him with a potential move to Barcelona, with the Spanish giants previously identified as long-term admirers of the Nigerian striker. Barcelona are believed to be monitoring attacking reinforcements as they plan for squad changes, with Osimhen frequently mentioned among potential targets due to his pace, physicality and goal-scoring record. However, no formal negotiations have been confirmed at this stage, and Galatasaray are still expected to play a key role in any future decision regarding his next move. Osimhen remains under contract with Galatasaray, and the Turkish club are understood to be determined to retain him unless a major offer arrives from Europe. His performances since arriving in Turkey have strengthened his value, making him one of the most high-profile forwards in the transfer market.For now, the striker appears focused on clearing up speculation rather than confirming any immediate departure, even as interest from Barcelona and other top clubs continues to circulate.