Former Super Eagles captain and coach, Sunday Oliseh, has shed light on why some of England’s biggest clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal, pulled back from signing Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen this summer.

According to Oliseh, the decision was less about talent and more about economics. He estimates the true cost of acquiring and retaining the 25-year-old forward at €187 million, a figure that factors in not just the transfer fee, but also the full wage bill over the length of the contract.

The Breakdown: How €75m Becomes €187m

Oliseh explained that while Napoli’s transfer price for Osimhen was reported at €75 million, the wages told a bigger story. Osimhen’s €15 million net annual salary translates to about €28 million gross per year once taxes, bonuses, and associated costs are included.

Over a standard four-year contract, this amounts to roughly €112 million in wages. When combined with the €75m transfer fee, the total financial commitment hits €187 million.

“This is the major stumbling block for Premier League clubs,” Oliseh said. “It’s not just the transfer, it’s the total package.”

Why Galatasaray Moved First

Despite the price, Galatasaray pushed through a €75m deal this summer after Osimhen’s phenomenal loan season in Turkey, where he scored 37 goals and made 8 assists in 41 matches.

Football insiders say Galatasaray’s willingness to stretch financially was helped by commercial factors: Osimhen’s global profile, shirt sales potential, and his ability to deliver instant impact in the Champions League.

Why England Said “Not Now”

Oliseh argues that total cost of ownership, a key metric in modern football transfers, was the main deterrent for English clubs. With Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) now limiting spending, committing €28m a year in wages to a single player is a major budgetary gamble.

Some analysts, however, believe tactics also played a role. While Osimhen thrives in high-pace, counter-attacking systems like Napoli’s and Galatasaray’s, not every Premier League side plays to those strengths. Age profile, squad balance, and injury history also factored into risk assessments.

The Future Market for Osimhen

Oliseh admits the door is not closed:

“Top clubs could return for him in the future, if contract terms, wages, or tactical needs change.”

For now, Osimhen’s blockbuster move to Galatasaray is one of the most financially and strategically significant deals of 2025, underlining a trend in football where economic sustainability often outweighs raw talent in transfer decisions.