Super Eagles Midfielder Gives Green Light to Turkish Giants Amid Transfer Tug-of-War.

Raphael Onyedika

The January transfer window is heating up, and one of the hottest stories involves Super Eagles star Raphael Onyedika. The 24-year-old defensive midfielder, currently shining at Club Brugge in Belgium, has reportedly given his full approval to a move to Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray.

According to multiple reports from Nigerian and Turkish sources, Onyedika turned down an approach from Galatasaray last summer to focus on his development with Club Brugge. But now, after consistent performances including helping his club win the Belgian Pro League title and domestic cups, he’s ready for the next step.

Galatasaray, fresh off back-to-back Super Lig titles and bolstered by the permanent signing of fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen, see Onyedika as the perfect addition to their midfield. Sources indicate that Osimhen himself has been actively encouraging his national team teammate to make the switch to Istanbul.

The main hurdle? The transfer fee. Club Brugge are holding firm at around €25 million, while Galatasaray value the player closer to €15 million and are preparing negotiations—potentially starting lower and structuring the deal with add-ons.

Recent updates from Turkish media (including TRT Spor) confirm Onyedika remains the top priority on Galatasaray‘s midfield shortlist, ahead of names like Rúben Neves, André Trindade, and Éderson.

With the AFCON 2025 underway, Onyedika is focused on international duty, but behind the scenes, talks are expected to accelerate soon after the tournament. If this deal goes through, it would reunite him with Osimhen and add even more Nigerian flair to the Lions of Istanbul.