Messi Sets Condition to Join Osimhen at Galatasaray

Reports from Turkey suggest that Argentine superstar Lionel Messi could make a surprising short-term move to Turkish giants Galatasaray, potentially linking up with Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, currently enjoying a break from Major League Soccer (MLS) ahead of the 2026 World Cup, is reportedly open to a four-month deal covering 12 matches. However, Messi has set a key condition: he would only play home fixtures in Istanbul, refusing to feature in away games.

Turkish football analyst Levent Tüzemen told A Spor, “The management approached Messi from the USA. He feels the tempo in MLS is demanding and doesn’t want to risk injury before the World Cup. He agreed to play 12 matches only if all games are in Istanbul.”

Galatasaray, who are currently leading the Super Lig with 49 points, have six remaining home league matches, one Turkish Cup home fixture, and a Champions League play-off home tie against Juventus. Discussions with Messi and his representatives are said to be progressing rapidly ahead of the transfer window deadline on Thursday.

If the deal materialises, it would see Messi team up with Osimhen, who played a pivotal role in Galatasaray’s domestic double in the 2024/25 season, scoring 37 goals in 47 appearances across all competitions.

Club president Dursun Özbek has previously hinted at the possibility of signing Messi, stating in October, “You can’t live without dreaming. Our financial situation allows us to ask about Messi without hesitation. We have raised our level of success and stability, so why not dream?”

Messi’s potential arrival would be a sensational boost for Galatasaray and a chance for fans to witness one of football’s greatest talents in Turkey.