Turkish champions Galatasaray have reportedly rejected an ambitious offer from Premier League side Arsenal involving Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres and an additional €30 million in exchange for Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen.

The reported proposal underlines Arsenal’s continued interest in the Nigerian international despite strengthening their attacking options in recent transfer windows.

According to Turkish journalist Ömer Faruk Özcan, senior Arsenal officials travelled to Istanbul in an attempt to negotiate Osimhen’s transfer, but Galatasaray turned down the approach, insisting the striker remains central to their long-term plans.

The Turkish giants are said to value the 27-year-old among the world’s elite forwards and are unwilling to sanction his departure unless they receive an offer that reflects his market worth.

Galatasaray stand firm on valuation

Reports indicate Galatasaray believe Osimhen is worth between €130 million and €150 million and will not entertain offers below that valuation.

The club’s stance has also discouraged interest from other Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, who have also been linked with the Nigerian striker.

By rejecting Arsenal’s player-plus-cash proposal, Galatasaray have once again demonstrated their determination to keep one of the most influential players in the Turkish Super Lig.

Club officials reportedly view Osimhen as indispensable both on and off the pitch as they prepare for another domestic title challenge and UEFA Champions League campaign.

Osimhen continues outstanding form

Galatasaray’s reluctance to sell is backed by Osimhen’s remarkable performances since completing his permanent move from Napoli.

The Nigerian striker has scored 59 goals and provided 16 assists in 74 appearances across all competitions, helping the club secure back-to-back Turkish Super Lig titles.

His goalscoring consistency has also strengthened Galatasaray’s ambitions in Europe, where he has emerged as one of the team’s key attacking players.

Osimhen has equally become an important figure under head coach Okan Buruk, earning admiration from supporters for his leadership, work ethic and ability to deliver in crucial matches.

Arsenal remain interested

Arsenal’s interest in Osimhen is believed to have remained strong despite signing Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP in 2025.

Reports suggest sporting director Andrea Berta has previously travelled to Turkey to monitor the Super Eagles star, while questions reportedly remain over Gyökeres’ adaptation to English football.

The latest proposal involving the Swedish striker and additional cash reflects Arsenal’s desire to strengthen their attack with one of Europe’s most prolific centre-forwards.

However, Galatasaray’s refusal indicates the Turkish champions have no intention of allowing Osimhen to leave on terms they consider unfavourable.

Long-term contract strengthens Galatasaray

Osimhen’s long-term contract has further strengthened Galatasaray’s negotiating position.

The Nigerian signed a four-year deal in July 2025 that runs until June 2029 in what has been described as the most lucrative contract ever awarded to a player in Turkish football.

The agreement is reportedly worth around €21 million per season through salary, loyalty bonuses and image-rights payments.

Galatasaray also paid Napoli €75 million to complete the transfer, while the Italian club retained a 10 per cent sell-on clause and inserted provisions restricting any sale to another Serie A club before 2027.

No indication of exit

Despite continued transfer speculation, there is no indication that Osimhen is pushing for a move away from Istanbul.

The striker is understood to have held positive discussions with manager Okan Buruk and senior club officials before returning for pre-season preparations, reaffirming his commitment to the Turkish champions.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also suggested the situation remains stable, with Osimhen believed to be happy at Galatasaray unless an exceptional offer arrives from the Premier League.

For now, Galatasaray remain determined to build their future around the Super Eagles star, who is expected to play another leading role as the club targets further domestic success and a strong UEFA Champions League campaign.