Arsenal have reportedly entered discussions with Galatasaray regarding Victor Osimhen, as the Turkish giants pursue moves for Gunners winger Gabriel Martinelli and youngster Ethan Nwaneri.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to reports from British and European outlets—including insights from The Telegraph journalist Matt Law—Galatasaray made a £38.4m approach for Martinelli and inquired about Nwaneri during high-level talks with Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta. While it remains unconfirmed which club first brought up Osimhen’s name, the prolific Nigerian forward became a focal point of the wider dialogue.
Exploring Striker Alternatives
Arsenal have long admired the 27-year-old striker, though Julian Alvarez had initially been their preferred target for the position. However, securing Alvarez has proved exceedingly difficult, with Atlético Madrid demanding upwards of £100m—having already turned down an £86m bid from Barcelona. As a result, the Gunners are actively weighing up alternative attacking options.
Osimhen is no stranger to Premier League interest, having previously drawn advanced talks with Chelsea before eventually moving to Galatasaray, where the Turkish club made his transfer permanent for a reported €75m.
A Stiff Valuation and Blocked Bids
Since arriving in Turkey, Osimhen’s form has been staggering. He has netted 59 goals in 74 total appearances, including 22 league goals and six assists in 33 Super Lig matches last season to help fire Galatasaray to a second consecutive title.
Despite Arsenal’s interest, prising him away from Istanbul will be a monumental task. Transfer expert Florian Plettenberg recently reported that Saudi Pro League outfit Al Hilal lodged a massive €130m verbal bid for the forward through an intermediary, which Galatasaray flatly rejected.
“Galatasaray were offered €130m for Victor Osimhen yesterday via an intermediary acting for Al-Hilal. The offer was made verbally. Galatasaray are not willing to negotiate at this stage and have no intention of entering talks,” Plettenberg posted on .
This firm stance dampens earlier rumors suggesting the Turkish champions might lower their asking price to €65m, cementing their resolve to keep their star striker despite mounting interest from top European clubs and cash-rich suitors abroad.