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Galatasaray Monitor Nigerian Record-Breaker George Ilenikhena Amid Difficult Start in Saudi Arabia

Posted : 24 April 2026

Turkish giants Galatasaray are closely monitoring the status of teenage Nigerian striker George Ilenikhena. The 19-year-old forward recently moved to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad in February 2026 for a fee of €33 million. However, he has struggled to find his footing in the Middle East.

The young attacker has made five appearances for Al-Ittihad without finding the back of the net. This slow start has caused some internal concern at the Saudi club despite his contract running until 2029. Sources in Turkey indicate that Galatasaray officials view the youngster as a talent who would thrive back in Europe.

Galatasaray’s interest comes at a strategic time for the club. They are currently working to secure the permanent future of Victor Osimhen. With elite clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona linked to Osimhen, the Turkish champions are looking for long-term attacking depth.

A loan deal is currently being discussed as the most likely route for Ilenikhena to join the Istanbul-based side. Al-Ittihad may be open to this arrangement to help the player regain his confidence. However, a permanent transfer has not been ruled out if the Saudi side decides to cut their losses.

Ilenikhena has a history of making an immediate impact on the big stage. He became the youngest Nigerian-born player to score in the UEFA Champions League at just 17 years and 119 days old. That historic goal secured a 3-2 victory for Royal Antwerp against Barcelona.

The striker was born in Lagos and raised in France before beginning his professional journey at Amiens SC. He became the youngest goalscorer in Ligue 2 history at age 16. His physical profile and clinical left foot led AS Monaco to pay €20 million for his services in 2024.

Galatasaray is not the only club keeping tabs on the 1.85-meter-tall forward. Eintracht Frankfurt and AS Roma have also expressed interest in his progress. The coming transfer window will be vital in determining if Ilenikhena returns to European football or continues his journey in Saudi Arabia.

 

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