Arsenal could reportedly make a move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen this summer, with a bid of more than £60 million potentially enough to convince Galatasaray to consider selling the forward.
Football Insider, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra, claims the Gunners have maintained their interest in Osimhen and could submit a formal offer in the coming weeks as manager Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad.
Arsenal’s interest in the 27-year-old reportedly emerged during discussions with Galatasaray over a possible transfer involving Gabriel Martinelli, although any deal for Osimhen would be separate from the Brazilian winger’s potential move to the Turkish champions.
“Arsenal must make an offer of over £60m to stand a chance of landing Osimhen this summer,” Football Insider reported on its Transfer Insider podcast.
Osimhen joined Galatasaray on a permanent basis last summer after his successful loan spell at the club and enjoyed an impressive first season, recording 28 goal contributions in 33 appearances.
The Nigeria international is currently earning more than £300,000 per week at Galatasaray, meaning a move to Arsenal could make him the highest-paid player at the Premier League club.
Arteta has indicated that Arsenal remain active in the transfer market as they seek to improve their squad ahead of the transfer deadline.
“There is more that we want to do because every time we have an opportunity to improve the squad and bring more quality and depth to the squad, we need to do that,” Arteta said.
“We are actively trying to do so. The thing in the market is that it doesn’t just depend on you. We are very clear on that.”
Osimhen, meanwhile, has refused to rule out a possible transfer, although he insists his immediate focus remains on his football.
Speaking to reporters in Turkey after scoring twice in Galatasaray’s Super Lig opener on Friday, the striker acknowledged the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
“There are always rumours in transfer seasons. I will take care of my business. I am focused on my job, then we will see and think further,” he said.
With Arsenal continuing to assess their options in the transfer market, Osimhen’s future at Galatasaray could become one of the major transfer stories as the deadline approaches.