Turkish second-division side Istanbulspor have dismissed reports linking Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen with a potential takeover of the club.
The club’s president, Ecmel Faik Sarıalioğlu, confirmed that no official approach has been received from the Galatasaray forward or his representatives.
Speculation about a possible deal surfaced after Osimhen spoke during a livestream session with Nigerian influencer Carter Efe, where he shared his ambition to invest in football after his playing career.
The Super Eagles striker revealed plans to acquire a lower-league club in Turkey and establish a partner team in the Nigeria Premier Football League to help develop young Nigerian talents and create a pathway to European football.
However, speaking to Turkish outlet Milliyet, Sarıalioğlu played down the reports.
“We’ve seen reports that Osimhen is going to buy Istanbulspor. But as the club president, I can confirm we haven’t received any official confirmation,” he said.
Founded in 1926 by students of Istanbul High School, Istanbulspor remain one of the oldest clubs in the city but have endured fluctuating fortunes over the years, including relegation from the top flight in the 2004/05 season.
