The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has strongly condemned the ongoing bloodshed in Benue State, declaring that such brutality must no longer be accepted. The Sultan emphasized that these violent attacks, no matter the ethnic background, religion, or political affiliation of those involved, have no place in a united Nigeria and must be universally denounced. Since June 14, more than 300 lives have been lost following violent attacks by suspected armed herdsmen in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. Expressing his concern, the Sultan rebuked the nation’s security agencies for failing to proactively prevent the escalating violence. This sentiment was relayed through a statement issued by Professor Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, Secretary-General of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), titled “Time to Rise Beyond Lamentations as Benue Bleeds Again.” The statement reads:“We say it clearly—enough is enough. The prolonged silence or perceived apathy from the public and leadership may only encourage those who seek to divide and destabilize our beloved country. JNI also prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved families and a restoration of lasting peace and security in Benue and the rest of the nation. “In this time of mourning with the people of Benue, we call for a moment of serious national introspection. We must discard divisive ideologies and unite under one cause—to end the unwarranted loss of innocent lives in any form or place. “We reaffirm that human life is sacred. Every Nigerian must recognize this principle and act to preserve it.” JNI concluded by expressing deep sympathy to both the government and citizens of Benue State, describing the attacks as an unimaginable horror that no civilized society should ever accept as normal.
Neymar Jr’s father has confirmed that negotiations with UEFA Champions League clubs are currently in motion regarding his son’s next move. Despite ongoing discussions, he did not eliminate the possibility of Neymar Jr remaining at Santos FC, his formative club. The Brazilian football star made a return to Santos in January after an injury-plagued tenure with Al-Hilal, a Saudi Pro League side. Following the early termination of his substantial contract in Saudi Arabia, Neymar joined Santos on a free transfer. Now, with his short-term contract nearing its expiration, widespread speculation has emerged concerning the future of the 33-year-old forward. Speaking to French outlet L’Equipe, Neymar Sr revealed that several elite clubs in Europe are ready to initiate formal discussions. “This week, we’re heading to Miami to meet with some clubs. We need to hear their proposals and then make a decision,” he stated. He further added, “Yes, European clubs are involved. Some of them are currently participating in the Champions League.They’re aware he has the potential for an outstanding season, as everything is in place for his return to top form. However, the Brazilian market remains attractive too.”
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD …and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen (Matthew 28:20 NKJV). Prevailing faith is the result of your consciousness that God is in you, with you and for you, and has lavished His love upon you. This knowledge makes you invincible; it gives the giant-killer mentality. You just know that in life, come what may, you’re a victor forever; you’re more than a conqueror because the greater One lives in you. This mindset was what set David apart in his day when he confronted Goliath. David heard the same threats from Goliath as the entire Israelite army, but he focused on the fact that he was circumcised and Goliath wasn’t. Circumcision was the sign of the covenant between God and Abraham. If you were part of that covenant, it meant you were connected to God. If you weren’t circumcised, you had no power against those who were. David’s confidence came from this understanding. He said, “…who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (1 Samuel 17:26 NKJV). To David, Goliath was no match because Israel was connected to the God of Abraham. This is a powerful lesson for us as God’s children. We’re not ordinary people. Anyone who’s against us is ultimately against God. This might sound overwhelming, but it’s the truth. Jesus emphasized this in Acts 9:4 when Saul was persecuting the Church. The Lord said to him, “…Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” Then in our opening verse, we read where He said, “…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen” (Matthew 28:20 NKJV). When He said this, He meant you have my presence, and you have my support. How could you be defeated when you have His presence and His support? To have His support means you’re backed by all the arsenal and resources of heaven. His entire wealth, all His glory and power, and His angels are available to you. This assurance is not just a comforting thought but a reality that empowers us to live boldly for Him and in defence of the Gospel. With His presence and support, you’re unstoppable. Just as David stood confidently against Goliath, knowing he was backed by the living God, you too can stand firm in the knowledge that God isn’t only with you, He’s in you by His Spirit, in His fullness. Therefore, no adversary or adversity can prevail against you because you’re connected to Him. Glory to God! PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for your indwelling presence and your power at work in me. Nothing can stand against me successfully, for your glory, and all the resources of heaven are available to me as I walk in the path and destiny that you’ve created for me. Thank you for my inextricable oneness with you, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYDeuteronomy 20:4For the LORD your God [is] he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you. Psalm 46:1God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in troubl Hebrews 13:5-6 AMPCLet your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!] 6 So we take comfort and are encouraged and confidently and boldly say, The Lord is my Helper; I will not be seized with alarm [I will not fear or dread or be terrified]. What can man do to me? DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 7:1-53 & 2 Chronicles 29-30 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 2:1-7 & Deuteronomy 15 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I have been divinely enabled to walk in righteousness, prosperity, health, success, and victory. I am eternally victorious in Christ. I have power over crises; I prosper exceedingly, manifesting Christ’s righteousness and dominion everywhere. I live above, and far beyond the distracting elements of this world, because I live in Christ! I live an endless, incorruptible, and indestructible life. I have gained ascendancy over the lying vanities of this world, including sickness and disease. The Lord has given His angels charge over me to keep me. Nothing can hurt me by any means. I am surrounded on every side by the goodness of God. All around me, there are treasures, everywhere! All things are working for my good. I am blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus and I take possession of my inheritance in Christ. My health, strength, and wealth are assured. Christ is mingled with my spirit. So, I refuse to be sick any day, anytime. I am invigorated with strength always. The joy of the Lord is my strength. I will never, never be weak. That joy produces laughter deep in my spirit, causing my health to bloom and flourish. Nothing can weigh me down. I know no depression or oppression because I am buoyed by joy unspeakable overflowing in my heart. I have been brought into a life of unending joy, joy that comes from my inner man and transcends physical circumstances. My joy is of the Spirit; it is everlasting and cannot be dampened by sickness or infection. I am ever strong and alive, and confident that the joy of the Lord is my strength! I do not worry about my health or anything else because the Lord has perfected all that concerns me. I glorify God in my body, and it functions perfectly at all times by the Spirit. I am excellent and full of glory, for the life of God
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As India grapples with the tragic Air India plane disaster that took the lives of over 270 individuals, grieving relatives are urgently requesting complete bodies of their loved ones to carry out traditional last rites—many expressing anguish that body bags contain only dismembered parts. The crash, which involved a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route to London, triggered harrowing scenes at Ahmedabad’s Civil Hospital, where temporary morgues were established to accommodate the influx of casualties following Thursday’s horrific incident. Times of India reports show heartbroken family members crowding around the postmortem section, pleading with officials to release full-bodied remains. Unfortunately, some of their appeals are being met with grim explanations. Authorities have admitted that the nature of the explosion and crash impact has made it difficult to retrieve intact corpses. In one disturbing instance, a single body bag contained two severed heads, compelling medical officials to conduct additional DNA tests to confirm identities. According to a senior hospital source, “DNA reanalysis can take up to 72 hours. These heads are from two separate individuals and cannot be handed over until proper identification is ensured.” The catastrophic crash unfolded shortly after the aircraft took off, plummeting into a residential block near a medical college hostel. The disaster resulted in the deaths of 241 passengers, 29 local residents, and left only one survivor among the 242 passengers on board. That lone survivor, 40-year-old British citizen Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, spoke to Hindustan Times, recounting the horrific moments: “Just after takeoff, there was a massive bang. The next thing I knew, the plane had crashed. I woke up surrounded by lifeless bodies. It was terrifying. Someone pulled me into an ambulance.” Ramesh, who sustained serious injuries to his chest, eyes, and feet, had been on a return flight to the UK alongside his 45-year-old brother, Ajay Kumar Ramesh, following a family visit. As the DNA identification process continues, cultural and religious considerations are escalating the emotional strain. Many bereaved families are unable to perform cremations or burials without whole remains, prolonging their trauma. In response to the tragedy, the Indian Civil Aviation Ministry has launched urgent safety reviews on all Air India’s Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft equipped with GEnx engines. The investigation will scrutinize takeoff mechanisms, fuel systems, and digital engine management. Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik confirmed Ramesh’s survival, stating that he was rescued from seat 11A, the only individual pulled from the debris alive. International responses to the crash have been swift and heartfelt. French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed deep sorrow and extended condolences to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the affected families. Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni voiced her solidarity, expressing her nation’s “profound sympathy with the people of India during this painful time.”
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The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has issued a strong condemnation over the recent deadly attacks in Yelewata and Daudu communities located in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. In a statement released on Monday, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, who chairs the forum, labeled the violence a shocking violation of human dignity and stated that such acts deserve absolute and collective condemnation. “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum stands firmly in support of the mourning families and the Benue State Government during this deeply sorrowful period,” the statement declared. Governor Abdulrazaq also offered prayers for the souls of the departed, and called for divine healing and comfort for the victims’ families, as well as a swift recovery for those who were wounded and strength for the survivors. Additionally, the forum pledged to fully support and work with Benue State Government and appropriate security agencies to bring peace and stability back to the affected areas. “We call on all Nigerians — regardless of religion or political identity — to speak against such violent acts and work together to build a nation founded on peace, fairness, and mutual respect,” the forum urged. The NGF also extended its deep sympathies to Governor Hyacinth Alia, the state administration, and the people of Benue following the tragic events that struck both communities.
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Yelewata—a serene agricultural village on the Abuja–Makurdi corridor in Benue State—will forever mark June 13–14, 2025, as its darkest day. On that dreadful Friday night into Saturday morning, the community was jolted awake by relentless gunshots, ablaze residences and shops, and the gut-wrenching screams of children being hacked, shot, or burned alive by suspected armed herdsmen. By dawn on Saturday, June 14, over 300 people had perished, hundreds of dwellings lay in ruins, and the village’s former vitality was silenced by profound sorrow. This massacre—remembered by survivors as the deadliest in recent memory—shocked a community once known for peaceful farming. Elder Amos, a 57‑year‑old survivor, recounted: “It was like war. I escaped with my third son. My wife and other children weren’t so lucky. My world ended that Friday night.” The assault, believed by many to be orchestrated, heightened long-standing tensions between local farmers and grazing herdsmen. Just weeks earlier, Tiv and Idoma traditional rulers had ordered herders off communal farmland by late May, due to repeated encroachment and violence. That deadline passed unheeded, culminating in tragedy. Previously, similar attacks had occurred in Edikwu‑Ankpali (Apa LGA) and Tyoshin (Naka, Gwer East LGA), claiming many lives. Individual losses are heartbreaking. Among the victims was Pharmacist Matthew Iormba, an academically brilliant graduate who’d returned home after finishing his housemanship in Kano—only to be burnt in the blaze. Another victim, Tsegba Lucy, lost her mother and five siblings. In her agony, she told us: “My beloved mum and beautiful sisters. Go well till we meet again … I love you, but God loves you more.” Local footballer Agande described returning from a Makurdi match to find his parents and ten relatives incinerated. Homes, farms, photos, schoolbooks and cooking utensils—all were destroyed. Fire still smolders in some ruins; charred remains lie unburied days later. Franc Utoo—a lawyer and politician from Yelewata—lost more than 33 relatives and 50 political allies. He told LMSINT MEDIA that the community had intelligence the attack was planned: “We learned they might invade from Obi, Doma or Keana LGAs … We informed security agents, but nothing was done.” According to Utoo, villagers had relocated at night to the primary school, church and market square. The attackers launched around 10 pm on June 13, targeting those gathering points under the cover of rain. He added that the assailants used diversion tactics to hit multiple locations simultaneously, including Yelewata’s new market. A major controversy arose over casualty figures. Governor Hyacinth Alia—citing an official panel—reported just 59 deaths, a claim rejected by locals: Samson, a youth leader in Daudu, insisted: “We lost over 300 people … A family here lost over 40 members alone.” President Tinubu’s statement, attributing the incident to “reprisal attacks”, baffled and angered survivors. Utoo sharply criticized this framing, pointing out the lack of commitment to arrest perpetrators or provide relief. The Federal government, via SGF George Akume, acknowledged more than 200 fatalities, though the true number remains unknown. The community also decried the delayed and muted government response. Governor Alia took over 48 hours to visit or comment. Police and the deputy governor reportedly left after brief visits. Youth protests in Makurdi were quelled with tear gas and arrests of at least 14 demonstrators demanding justice. Globally, the event drew outrage. Pope Leo XIV, speaking from Rome, called the massacre “terrible,” urging justice and protection for Christian rural communities in Nigeria. List of Victims as provided by Franc Utoo. What lies ahead for Yelewata? The town is engulfed in mourning. Survivors are still recovering bodies, searching for the missing. The question haunting many: Can Yelewata ever heal after this devastation? This atrocity—one attack too many—has left deep wounds in time and memory.
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Liam Delap, Chelsea’s new forward, has expressed immense delight after making his first appearance and contributing an assist during the FIFA Club World Cup match. Delap joined the Blues earlier this summer following the club’s decision to activate his £30 million release clause from Ipswich Town, finalizing a highly anticipated move. Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, placed the 22-year-old on the bench in their Club World Cup opening match against Los Angeles FC on Monday. With Chelsea holding a narrow 1-0 advantage courtesy of Pedro Neto’s strike, Delap was introduced into the game and made an instant impact. He delivered the final pass that led to Enzo Fernandez’s 79th-minute goal, effectively sealing the win. During a post-match interview with Channel 5, Delap said, “I’m really happy. It feels amazing to finally make my debut and to contribute with an assist—it’s truly special. The team has embraced me warmly. Although I’ve only participated in a few training sessions, I’m looking forward to more opportunities.” When asked about delivering more assists in the future, Delap confidently responded: “Definitely! Assisting is great, but I also want to score goals myself.”
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed his upcoming visit to Benue State on Wednesday in response to the sustained attacks and tragic killings of residents by suspected Fulani herdsmen. This commitment was made public on Monday while President Tinubu was inaugurating The Greater Abuja Water Supply Network—specifically Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6 within the Federal Capital City (FCC). “While I deeply sympathize with the people of Benue, I have communicated with the governor, the leadership, and the entire Benue populace to accept our heartfelt condolences. I urge them to make a conscious effort to sustain peace and unity among themselves,” Tinubu stated. He further emphasized the importance of national cohesion by saying, “I have always believed we are one large family sharing the same house, perhaps living in different rooms, but still under the same roof. Our diversity should fuel prosperity, not division. Let’s learn to manage our emotions and frustrations.” The president concluded by stating, “I will realign my schedule and visit the people of Benue this Wednesday.” Federal Security and Government Officials Already in Benue In a press release from Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Monday, it was clarified that President Tinubu’s visit is intended to personally assess the ongoing crisis that has led to countless deaths and widespread destruction. The statement read: “During this visit, the President will engage with various stakeholders — including traditional leaders, politicians, clergy, community elders, and youth organizations — to forge lasting peace solutions to the violent unrest.” To pave the way for this high-profile visit, President Tinubu has already dispatched key federal figures to Benue, including: President Tinubu is also expected to host a town hall meeting that will bring together all relevant stakeholders during his stay. Commitment to Peace in Benue The president has consistently condemned the ongoing violence in Benue State, urging all involved parties to embrace peace, love, and mutual respect. He has also expressed his condolences to families affected by the crisis and those who have suffered losses. Initially, Tinubu’s itinerary showed that he was set to commission various developmental projects in Kaduna State this Wednesday. However, his visit to Kaduna has now been rescheduled for Thursday, June 19, to accommodate his urgent trip to Benue.
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Barrister Melah Ibrahim Yusuf Maimuruchi, a prominent legal practitioner and youth advocate, has weighed in on the growing controversy in the North East following the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu without a corresponding mention of Vice President Kashim Shettima. The development sparked debate at the gathering where concerns were raised that since both leaders ran on a joint ticket, any form of political endorsement should also acknowledge the Tinubu/Shettima duo. Speaking out on the matter, Melah criticized the notion of enforcing Shettima’s continued vice presidency, stating that Tinubu’s original selection of Shettima doesn’t mean he is now politically or morally bound to him. According to Melah, who represents the Middle Belt youth constituency, the region should be next in line for the vice presidency, emphasizing that no political office is a birthright of any individual or zone. In his signed statement, Melah clarified: “Leadership is not a right conferred by entitlement or coercion. No deputy, vice, or assistant has the inherent authority to force their continued role upon a principal.” He further explained: “At the recent APC Northeast Stakeholders Forum in Gombe, a major highlight was the endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term. Notably, Vice President Shettima was not mentioned. This omission has fueled assumptions that Tinubu may be considering a different running mate in future.” Melah added that despite rising tensions and minor unrest over the issue, what truly matters is understanding that political service is a privilege, not a demand. “True loyalty is proven during uncertainty. When a subordinate tries to cling to power, rather than serve with humility, it raises questions of self-interest and disloyalty.” He stressed the need to shift the national focus from individual ambitions to unity and equitable representation: “As a Northerner from the Middle Belt, my concern is not about who becomes Vice President, but ensuring the position represents national cohesion and regional balance. If Tinubu, using his constitutional right, decides to switch his vice president, it shouldn’t imply marginalization of the North or the Northeast.” Instead, Melah believes such a decision presents an opportunity for deeper national integration. “The Middle Belt, known for its diverse culture and as a vital link between the North and South, is ideal for this transition. Appointing a Vice President from this region would signal commitment to reconciliation, fairness, and inclusive governance.” Melah also acknowledged President Tinubu’s political wisdom in managing national diversity and interests: “So far, Tinubu has shown strong leadership in balancing various national concerns. Choosing a Middle Beltan as vice president will enhance his image as a unifier and deepen his legacy.” In his final appeal, Melah expressed hope that Vice President Shettima, if a change is imminent, would rise above personal ambition: “Should a transition be necessary, I trust Shettima will support the move for the sake of national harmony. The future of our country must always supersede personal political goals.” He concluded by urging for leadership that puts peace, unity, and national growth first: “This is no time for political rivalry or opportunism. It’s a season for nation-building. Anchoring the vice presidency in the Middle Belt would be a bold step toward long-lasting peace and stability.”
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Nigerian socialite and crossdresser, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, better known as Bobrisky, has openly criticized members of the Nigerian Senate for their perceived indifference toward the ongoing violence and killings in Benue State. Taking to his Instagram story on Monday, Bobrisky expressed disappointment, comparing the swift legislative attention his legal issues received to the silence surrounding the tragic events in Benue. “Senators and House of Representatives didn’t summon an emergency meeting concerning the killings happening in Benue,” Bobrisky lamented. “But they quickly gathered when it was about Bobrisky. Disgraceful! What a shameful country.” The controversial figure faced legal proceedings in 2024 after being charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the misuse of the Nigerian currency, the naira. Although found guilty, later reports indicated that Bobrisky did not serve any prison sentence following the court ruling, sparking public criticism and debate over the country’s justice system and selective governance.
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British professional boxer Ryan Taylor has fired back at Nigerian critics following his controversial comments regarding his ex-fiancée, Florence Otedola, widely recognized as DJ Cuppy. The drama unfolded on Father’s Day, when Taylor posted a heartfelt photo of himself and his daughter on Instagram. In the caption, he expressed his hopes of helping to eliminate racism through the upbringing of mixed-race children. However, things took a turn when a social media user remarked on the child’s resemblance to DJ Cuppy. In response, Taylor made a pointed comment that seemed to indirectly criticize the Nigerian disc jockey. He said, “She wasn’t enough of a woman to even fathom creating such a beautiful creation like mine. Please leave me and don’t come back.” The comment ignited a wave of backlash, with many Nigerians expressing disapproval over his perceived insult to DJ Cuppy. In a follow-up reaction to the mounting criticisms, Taylor asserted that both he and his current partner have become targets of online trolling. He addressed the matter directly, stating that he is fully entitled to express his opinions freely, as he is bound by no agreement restricting his speech. His words: “Today is a special day. Nigerians gotta chill out, you come for the mother of my child and think I won’t back it? Don’t come on my page talking shit and cry when I speak. I NEVER signed the Contract. I will always say what I want and do what is right for me or my family. I haven’t said shit yet everyone gotta chill.”
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Nigerian music legend and current Benue State Entertainment and Community Outreach Technical Adviser, Innocent Ujah Idibia—famously known as 2Face or 2Baba—has declared the continuous attacks and killings across Benue State as a pressing national emergency. The award-winning artiste shared his grief and frustration over the unending wave of violence in the region, pointing out that no enduring solution has come from relevant authorities despite repeated bloodshed. In a video address, 2Baba passionately urged all leaders, elders, and political players within Benue State to set aside personal and political interests and collectively take responsibility to bring lasting peace. “My heart is extremely heavy. I’m deeply saddened and also very angry. The situation in Benue has escalated into a national emergency,” he said. “I honestly can’t make sense of it anymore. I’m speechless. This must end.” “This grief, this rage, the frustration—it’s too much. Watching this happen repeatedly is emotionally exhausting. This is way beyond routine condemnation. Now is the time for decisive and collective action.” “I urge every key stakeholder in Benue to rise up. We can solve this problem together. I truly believe there is a way forward.”
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Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano has delivered a fresh insight into the potential summer transfer of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, who is attracting attention from several major clubs. Osimhen, who recently concluded a season-long loan spell at Galatasaray, is currently undecided about where he’ll continue his career. The Nigerian international, aged 26, is currently enjoying his off-season vacation in Nigeria, while his permanent exit from Napoli appears imminent in the current transfer window. In a recent update shared via his YouTube channel, Romano disclosed that Victor Osimhen has multiple options for his next club destination. According to Romano, several clubs are in the race, including Al Hilal, Galatasaray, multiple English Premier League sides, and Serie A’s Juventus. “Al Hilal remain persistent in their pursuit of Victor Osimhen,” Romano explained. “They strongly believe that their financial package outshines offers from any other suitors, which is why they’re planning a renewed approach to land the Nigerian star, despite him previously declining their offer to represent them in the FIFA Club World Cup.” He added that the Saudi Arabian club already has a near-complete agreement with Napoli, and they’re determined to finalize terms with the player directly. Meanwhile, Galatasaray are still in the mix, and some Premier League clubs are closely monitoring developments. Additionally, Juventus have made another inquiry regarding the striker. “There are various potential moves on the table for Victor Osimhen,” Romano concluded.
