Galatasaray Chase for Raphael Onyedika Stalls Over Club Brugge’s €30m Asking Price

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Galatasaray’s attempt to sign Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika has hit a major roadblock after Club Brugge placed a valuation on the player that exceeds the Turkish champions’ financial plans.

The 24-year-old, who is currently on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations alongside Galatasaray’s record signing Victor Osimhen, has been monitored by the Istanbul club since the summer and again during the January transfer window. However, reaching an agreement now appears increasingly complicated.

According to reports from Turkish outlet Fotomac, Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk is a long-standing admirer of Onyedika and has kept close tabs on his development. Despite that interest, discussions have failed to progress meaningfully.

One of the main obstacles is Club Brugge’s continued participation in the UEFA Champions League. The report suggests that the Belgian champions are reluctant to part with a key midfielder while still competing in Europe, making a January deal unlikely.

It is understood that Club Brugge are demanding a fee in the region of €30 million for the Super Eagles midfielder. Galatasaray, on the other hand, are believed to have allocated between €20 million and €25 million for a central midfield signing.

“Club Brugge is asking for around €30 million, while Galatasaray’s budget for the position is between €20 and €25 million,” the report stated.

With the valuation gap proving difficult to close, Galatasaray are already assessing alternative options. Atalanta’s Brazilian midfielder Ederson has reportedly emerged as their top priority, with Onyedika likely to return to the shortlist only if that deal fails to materialise. Even then, Brugge’s firm stance on the fee could still block any move.

Onyedika continues to attract attention across Europe due to his consistent performances for Club Brugge. He joined the Belgian side in 2022 from FC Midtjylland for just under €10 million, becoming one of the most expensive signings in the club’s history.

After briefly losing his place under former manager Ronny Deila, the Nigerian midfielder worked his way back into the starting line-up last season. His standout performances in the UEFA Champions League played a significant role in restoring his importance to the team.

Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt have also been linked with Onyedika in recent months, although no concrete offer has yet been made.