Arsenal have reportedly opened talks with Galatasaray over a potential move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with the 27-year-old emerging as a priority target for manager Mikel Arteta as the Premier League champions continue to strengthen their attacking options.
Recent reports from Sky Sports, Football London and other UK outlets indicate that Arsenal have discussed Osimhen’s availability with Galatasaray. The developing talks come as the Turkish champions are simultaneously pursuing Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, creating the possibility of a broader player-exchange or multi-player negotiation between the clubs.
The latest claim that Osimhen is a “top priority” for Arteta originates from French journalist Sébastien Denis, who reported that Arsenal are increasingly confident of reaching an agreement with Galatasaray before the transfer window closes. The same report says Galatasaray want to recover at least their initial investment in the Nigerian forward, estimated at around €70 million.
However, the €70m figure should be treated as a reported valuation rather than an officially confirmed asking price. Galatasaray’s official announcement in July 2025 confirmed that the club paid Napoli a €75 million net transfer fee for Osimhen, while also agreeing to pay Napoli 10 per cent of any future profit from the player’s subsequent sale.
That distinction is significant. Galatasaray therefore have a substantial financial interest in any potential sale, but there is currently no official confirmation from either Arsenal or Galatasaray that the clubs have agreed a €70 million transfer fee.
Arsenal’s interest gathers momentum
The latest developments represent a significant escalation in Arsenal’s reported interest in Osimhen.
Sky Sports reported on Friday that the Gunners had discussed Osimhen with Galatasaray, while other reports say contact between the two clubs remains ongoing.
The Nigerian forward would provide Arsenal with a different attacking profile: a powerful central striker with the pace, physicality and penalty-box presence to operate as a conventional No. 9.
The move would also represent another opportunity for Osimhen to test himself in one of Europe’s major leagues after his highly productive spell in Turkey.
Galatasaray’s Martinelli interest could complicate negotiations
An intriguing dimension to the developing story is Galatasaray’s simultaneous interest in Gabriel Martinelli.
Reports indicate that Galatasaray have made a substantial offer for the Brazilian winger, although Martinelli has reportedly indicated a preference to remain in London.
Ethan Nwaneri has also been mentioned in reports concerning discussions between the two clubs, although there is no official indication that either Arsenal player will form part of an Osimhen transfer.
This has led to speculation that the negotiations could become more complicated than a straightforward cash transfer.
Osimhen’s Galatasaray numbers
Osimhen’s value to Galatasaray is reflected not only in the club’s financial investment but also in his performances since arriving in Istanbul.
After initially joining Galatasaray on loan from Napoli for the 2024–25 season, the Nigerian striker completed a permanent transfer in July 2025. Galatasaray’s official announcement confirmed a four-year contract beginning with the 2025–26 season.
The Turkish club also disclosed an exceptionally significant financial package for the player, including a €15 million net guaranteed annual salary, a €1 million loyalty bonus and €5 million annually for image rights.
His performances subsequently helped establish him as one of the most prominent attacking players in Turkish football.