Arsenal opens talks for Victor Osimhen

The Gunners are exploring the Nigerian's signing, now seen as a top attacking priority by Mikel Arteta

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Arsenal opens talks for Victor Osimhen

Arsenal have begun discussions with Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen, but the transfer fee and his wages are making the deal significantly more complicated.

Arsenal could pull off one of the biggest moves of this transfer window. According to Foot Mercato, confirming reports by the Telegraph, the Gunners have started talks with Galatasaray over Victor Osimhen. However, no official offer has been made yet.

🚨 🔴⚪️ #AFC |

💣 Arsenal are going all in for Victor Osimhen! 🇳🇬

🎯 This is a top priority request from Mikel Arteta. The Gunners are confident they can wrap up the deal before the transfer window closes

💰Galatasaray have not set an exact price for their striker but hope to recoup at least... pic.twitter.com/jRXxWAABWX
— Sébastien Denis (@sebnonda) August 13, 2026

Osimhen becomes Arteta’s top priority

The English champions had originally been considering a move for Julián Álvarez. However, Atlético de Madrid’s demands have made that deal far more complicated, although not entirely off the table. As a result, Mikel Arteta has now made Osimhen his new priority to strengthen his attack and push for Champions League glory.

Talks between the two clubs are also said to involve Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri. Galatasaray are interested in both Arsenal players, which could pave the way for a larger, multi-player deal.

Also read: Spanish Supercup 2027: Istanbul to host the Final Four

Galatasaray just rejected a €130 million offer

The Turkish club is negotiating from a position of strength. On Thursday, Galatasaray turned down a €130 million offer from Al-Hilal. The Istanbul club has not set an official price, but they are hoping to at least recoup the €75 million they invested in 2025 to sign him permanently from Napoli.

Under contract until June 2029, the Nigerian international is coming off a season with 22 goals and eight assists in 33 matches across all competitions. His record for the national team is also impressive, with 35 goals in 52 appearances.

Challenging salary demands

Osimhen’s salary could prove to be the main stumbling block. The striker earns about €15 million net per season, plus a €1 million loyalty bonus and nearly €5 million in image rights. Arsenal will have to make a major effort or convince the player to lower his wage demands to get the deal done.