Arsenal remain determined to sign Victor Osimhen despite Galatasaray’s insistence that the Nigerian striker will not be sold before the end of the summer transfer window.
The Premier League champions have explored a potential move for Osimhen as they continue to strengthen their attack, while Galatasaray are simultaneously negotiating deals involving Arsenal forwards Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri.
Osimhen has long been linked with a move to the Premier League and came close to joining Chelsea two years ago before the proposed transfer collapsed.
The 27-year-old played a key role in Napoli’s Serie A triumph in 2023 and has since helped Galatasaray secure consecutive league titles.
Since completing his permanent move from Napoli for €75 million (£65m), Osimhen has scored an impressive 59 goals in 74 appearances for the Turkish giants.
The Nigeria international did little to completely shut down speculation over his future after Galatasaray’s opening league game of the new season on Friday.
“There are always rumours during the transfer windows…” Osimhen said when asked about the ongoing speculation.
However, Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek has reportedly made the club’s position clear, insisting that Osimhen will not be sold under any circumstances, according to 343 Digital.
The Turkish champions have already demonstrated their determination to keep the striker by rejecting a €130 million (£111m) offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
Despite Galatasaray’s firm stance, Turkish publication Sozcu reports that Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta remain determined to secure Osimhen’s services.
The report claims Arsenal consider the Nigerian a more attainable target than Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.
The Gunners have maintained a long-standing interest in Alvarez, but Atletico are reportedly demanding at least £150 million before considering a summer sale.
With Osimhen apparently available at a lower valuation than Alvarez and Arsenal continuing to explore their options, the Nigerian could yet become a major target for the Premier League champions before the transfer window closes.
