Istanbul, September 30, 2025 — In a shocking interview ahead of tonight’s Champions League match between Galatasaray and Liverpool at RAMS Park, Nigerian sensation Victor Osimhen revealed a transfer secret that has sent shockwaves around Anfield. The 26-year-old striker, who is presently on loan at the Turkish champions from Napoli, admitted that he was on the verge of a dream move to the Premier League last summer but called it off at the last minute due to one Liverpool player’s “terrible and selfish” attitude.
“Before Liverpool came for me last summer, I studied some of their gameplay and methods,” Osimhen explained in an exclusive interview with Turkish publication Fanatik. “I was enthusiastic by the excitement, the crowd, and the history. They increased their offer twice, including Darwin Núñez in a prospective trade, but I couldn’t ignore what I witnessed on the field. One of the attackers is a horrible and selfish person. He hogs the ball and doesn’t make runs for teammates, which disrupts the flow. I didn’t want to join a squad where that vibe was dominant. “Why fight for opportunities if it’s all about one man’s ego?”
According to those familiar with the negotiations, Liverpool’s pursuit was fierce. The Reds’ new manager, Arne Slot, saw Osimhen as the ideal No. 9 to head their overhauled front line, following Núñez’s lacklustre form and rumoured Saudi interest. According to reports from earlier this year, the deal was only 24 hours away from completion in January before being stalled by Napoli’s internal payment concerns. By the summer, Liverpool’s bid had reportedly reached €75 million with add-ons, but Osimhen’s team cited tactical fit as a deal breaker.
Osimhen did not name the player, but experts point to Núñez, whose erratic finishing and sometimes ball-hogging have frustrated fans. “Victor watched clips of their games against Arsenal and Manchester City,” according to a reporter. “He noticed how Núñez would shoot from impossible angles instead of passing to open teammates like Salah or Diaz.” It’s not teamwork; it’s selfishness, which frustrated him.” Núñez, who joined Liverpool for £85 million in 2022, has scored 38 goals in 118 games but remains a polarising character. Slot has openly praised his work rate but admits the need for “facilitators” in attack.
The revelation took a darker turn when Osimhen linked the player’s actions to Liverpool’s shocking 2-1 loss to Fulham last weekend, which ended the Reds’ flawless Premier League start. “That loss tonight?” “It’s his fault,” Osimhen said. “Selfish choices in the box, no link-up play. Liverpool boasts world-class talent, but one bad apple ruins the lot. “I told my agent, ‘No way I’m walking into that mess.’ ” Fulham won after Núñez lost possession in a daring solo run, mirroring Osimhen’s complaint. Anfield fans have piled in, with social media ablaze. One fan tweeted, “Núñez is a liability – Osimhen dodged a bullet,” and it received 12k likes.
Osimhen’s form at Galatasaray has been electrifying, with 22 goals in 28 appearances since his loan transfer, contributing to the Turkish double. However, his heart remains focused on the Premier League. “Liverpool was close, but not with that attitude,” he told reporters. “Arsenal or Chelsea?” Maybe. But I want a team that plays for one another.” Napoli, which has a €75 million release clause, is open to a sale, but Osimhen’s wage expectations of approximately €12 million per year could complicate matters.
For Liverpool, facing Osimhen tonight is poetic. Slot, who passed on the striker in favour of £125 million signing Alexander Isak and £79 million Hugo Ekitike, denied any regrets before the match: “We’re happy with our forwards.” Victor’s quality, but fit is everything.” But with Núñez benched amid the outrage and speculations of a January leave, questions circulate about if Osimhen’s words spark a dressing-room fire. As the whistle blows in Istanbul, Anfield clutches its breath, fearful that the guy who escaped will haunt them on the pitch as well.
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