Trabzonspor President reveals Interest in Gift Orban and missed opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen

Trabzonspor President Ertuğrul Doğan has disclosed that the club could not afford to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen before his eventual loan move to Super Lig rivals Galatasaray.

Speaking to Tivibu Spor via Sabah Spor, Doğan confirmed that the reigning African Men’s Player of the Year had been offered to Trabzonspor, but the club was financially unable to match the high costs involved.

“Osimhen was also suggested to us, but it is not possible for us to reach those figures. Our rivals are paying two players as much as our total squad. You will get it according to your money,” Doğan said, highlighting the club’s budget constraints.

In the search for a striker, Trabzonspor had relied on Paul Onuachu last season, securing the Nigerian striker on loan from Southampton. However, the club has struggled to make his move permanent, as the Saints are demanding €15 million, while Trabzonspor is only willing to pay €8 million.

Doğan also revealed that the club has turned its attention to another Super Eagles prospect, Gift Orban. The 2023 Nigerian national team invitee has struggled to secure regular playing time at Olympique Lyon since joining the French club in January. Orban has made just one appearance this season, where he scored a brace coming off the bench against Racing Strasbourg before the international break.

“Gift Orban is a player we have talked to. If our coach has a request, we will work to fulfill it quickly,” Doğan added, confirming their interest in the talented young Lyon forward.