Arsenal make decision over Victor Osimhen transfer after Galatasaray warning

Arsenal remain interested in signing Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen but have reportedly told the Nigeria international that he would need to lower his salary demands to complete a move to north London.

Mikel Arteta is keen to add another attacking option before the summer transfer window closes, with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez also understood to be on Arsenal’s shortlist.

However, Atletico are reportedly unwilling to sell Alvarez, while the Argentina international is said to favour a move to Barcelona rather than a return to the Premier League. According to FootMercato, Arsenal have held talks over a potential deal for Osimhen, who is reportedly admired by Arteta.

The report claims Arsenal have “no intention of making an unreasonable offer to Osimhen” and will not match his current Galatasaray contract, which is worth more than €20 million (£17.1 million) per year. Osimhen must therefore decide whether to accept a lower salary package from Arsenal or remain at Galatasaray.

Galatasaray have already rejected a €130 million (£111 million) offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal for the striker this month. Club president Dursun Ozbek is reportedly determined not to sell Osimhen this summer.

Al-Hilal have since ended their pursuit of Osimhen and turned their attention to Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, although their latest £45 million bid for the England international has reportedly been rejected.

Osimhen strengthened his case for continued interest on Friday, August 21, by scoring twice in Galatasaray’s 4-0 away victory over Erzurumspor. The 27-year-old had also scored twice in Galatasaray’s 2-2 draw with newly promoted Corum FK in the opening match of the Super Lig season.

Despite the transfer speculation, Osimhen has refused to rule out remaining in Turkey or moving before the window closes. ‘There are always rumours during the transfer windows,’ Osimhen said. ‘I’ll focus on my job. I’m focused on my work. We’ll see and think about what comes next then.’