Arsenal enter talks for Victor Osimhen after Vinicius snub

Arsenal have entered discussions with Galatasaray concerning the potential transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. The talks emerged during broader negotiations between the Premier League champions and the Turkish club before the summer window closes.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta led these extensive discussions, which were originally centered on Gabriel Martinelli. It is currently uncertain whether Berta initiated the inquiry into Osimhen or if Galatasaray offered the striker as part of the negotiations. Galatasaray recently submitted a £38.4 million bid for Martinelli, though the Brazilian forward is reportedly hesitant to leave North London after scoring 11 goals in 53 appearances during Arsenal's 2025/26 title-winning season.

The interest in Osimhen is a long-standing matter for the club. Over a decade ago, former manager Arsène Wenger attempted to sign the forward following his Golden Boot success at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, but the striker chose to join Wolfsburg at that time.

Arsenal's pursuit of Osimhen follows a recent unsuccessful attempt to sign Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior. The Gunners explored a high-value move for the Brazilian, but he chose to sign a long-term contract extension in Spain instead.

Osimhen has been a prolific figure in Istanbul since joining Galatasaray. After a permanent move following an initial loan for €75 million, the striker has recorded 59 goals in 74 appearances across all competitions over the last two seasons. His scoring helped Galatasaray secure consecutive Turkish Süper Lig titles in the 2024/25 and 2025/26 campaigns. During the most recent season, he provided 22 goals and six assists.