Galatasaray have dealt a blow to Arsenal‘s transfer ambitions by warning the Premier League champions that star striker Victor Osimhen will not be sold during the summer transfer window under any circumstances.
Arsenal are understood to have identified the Nigerian international as a potential alternative as they continue their search for another top striker to provide competition for Viktor Gyökeres.
The Gunners are also preparing for a demanding season that will include Champions League football, while Gabriel Jesus could leave the club, increasing the need for another central striker.
Read Also: Osimhen breaks silence on Arsenal transfer speculation
However, Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek has reportedly made it clear that the Turkish champions have no intention of parting with Osimhen, regardless of the size of any offer.
According to Turkish reports, Özbek told members of his inner circle: “No matter how much the price is, I am not selling Osimhen.”
Galatasaray reject huge Al-Hilal offer
Galatasaray have already demonstrated their determination to retain Osimhen after reportedly rejecting a €130 million offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
Read Also: Arsenal open talks for Galatasaray goal machine Victor Osimhen
The Nigerian striker only completed a permanent move to Istanbul last summer after Galatasaray agreed a club-record €75 million deal with Napoli following his successful loan spell.
His performances have since made him one of the most influential players in the club’s recent history.
Osimhen has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances for Galatasaray, helping the club win consecutive Turkish Super Lig titles, and previously won the Serie A title with Napoli in 2023.
Arsenal turn to Osimhen
Despite Galatasaray’s stance, reports suggest Arsenal remain interested in the 27-year-old as they assess alternatives to their preferred target, Atlético Madrid forward Julian Alvarez.
The Gunners have reportedly found progress on a deal for Alvarez difficult, prompting them to consider Osimhen as a more attainable option.
Osimhen’s name has also come up in discussions about Galatasaray’s reported interest in Arsenal forwards Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri.
The Nigerian has been linked with a move to the Premier League throughout his career and previously came close to joining Chelsea.
He has also attracted interest from Tottenham and Al-Hilal, but Galatasaray’s latest position suggests any club hoping to sign him this summer will face a significant battle.
For Arsenal, the challenge is now not only negotiating Osimhen’s transfer fee, but convincing Galatasaray to part with a striker they regard as central to their ambitions.
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
Comments
Start the conversation about this story.