Arsenal have reportedly told Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen that he may need to accept a lower salary if he wants to complete a move to the Premier League club.
The Gunners remain interested in signing the Nigeria international despite Galatasaray’s decision to retain the forward during the current summer transfer window.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Arsenal have opened discussions over a possible deal for the 27-year-old as manager Mikel Arteta continues to strengthen his attacking options.
However, the report claims Arsenal are unwilling to make what they consider an excessive financial commitment to secure Osimhen’s services.
Arsenal unwilling to match Osimhen’s Galatasaray wages
Foot Mercato reported that Arsenal “have no intention of making an unreasonable offer” to Osimhen and are not prepared to match the salary package he currently receives at Galatasaray.
The Nigerian reportedly earns more than €20 million annually at the Turkish club, with his wages emerging as one of the major obstacles to a potential transfer.
Arsenal are therefore understood to have made their position clear to Osimhen, who could now have to decide whether to accept a reduced salary in order to facilitate a move to England or remain with Galatasaray.
Arteta still interested in Osimhen
Osimhen has reportedly remained on Arsenal’s radar as Arteta looks to add more firepower to his attack before the transfer window closes on September 1.
The striker is understood to be admired by the Arsenal manager, who sees him as a player capable of adding goals, pace and a significant attacking threat to his squad.
Osimhen’s goalscoring record and experience at the highest level have made him an attractive option for Arsenal as they look to strengthen their squad for the new campaign.
Galatasaray determined to keep Nigerian striker
Arsenal’s interest comes despite Galatasaray’s decision not to sell Osimhen during the current summer transfer window.
The Turkish champions have been keen to retain the Nigerian forward following his influential performances for the club.
Osimhen played a key role during his time in Turkey and has established himself as one of Galatasaray’s most important attacking players.
The club’s stance could make negotiations difficult for Arsenal, particularly if Galatasaray continue to demand a significant transfer fee for the striker.
Osimhen faces decision over Arsenal move
Osimhen now faces a major decision over his future as Arsenal consider whether a deal can be reached on terms acceptable to all parties.
For the transfer to progress, Arsenal may need the Nigerian to compromise on his wage demands, while the Premier League club would also have to reach an agreement with Galatasaray over the transfer fee.
With the September 1 deadline approaching, negotiations could intensify if Arsenal decide to make a formal approach for the former Napoli striker.
For Osimhen, the decision could ultimately come down to whether the opportunity to play in the Premier League and work under Arteta outweighs the financial benefits of remaining at Galatasaray.
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