Mikel Arteta remains keen to strengthen his attacking options and bring in another No.9 to compete with Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish forward, who arrived at the Emirates Stadium for £75 million last summer, scored 21 goals in all competitions but endured an inconsistent campaign.
Arsenal are also preparing for the departure of Gabriel Jesus, making another central striker a priority as they look ahead to another demanding season across multiple competitions.
Arsenal turn attention to Osimhen
The Gunners had previously identified Julian Alvarez as their preferred target, but their chances of landing the Atletico Madrid forward appear to be diminishing. Atletico have already resisted approaches from Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona for the Argentina international, underlining their determination to keep him.
As a result, Arsenal have increasingly turned their attention towards Osimhen, who is regarded as a more attainable alternative to Alvarez.
The situation is particularly interesting because Galatasaray are also working on potential deals involving Arsenal players Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri. Despite that developing relationship between the clubs, however, the Turkish champions appear unwilling to compromise over Osimhen.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League for several years and came close to joining Chelsea two years ago. He has also attracted interest from Tottenham.
Osimhen played a key role in Napoli’s Serie A triumph in 2023 before becoming an influential figure in Galatasaray’s successive domestic title-winning campaigns. Since his £65 million move from Napoli, he has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances for the Turkish club, taking his overall career tally to 175 goals.
Osimhen leaves door open over future
Despite Galatasaray’s firm position, Osimhen himself has refused to completely rule out the possibility of leaving the club this summer.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, the Nigeria international played down the speculation surrounding his future but indicated that a decision could come later.
“There are always rumours during the transfer windows.
“I’ll focus on my job. I’m focused on my work. We’ll see and think about what comes next then.”
Those comments are unlikely to end the transfer speculation, particularly with Arsenal continuing to search for a proven goalscorer.
Galatasaray president issues firm warning
Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek has reportedly gone even further, privately telling members of his inner circle that Osimhen will not be allowed to leave, regardless of the size of the offer.
“I will not say ‘yes’ to any transaction that will harm Galatasaray or not benefit Galatasaray,” Ozbek is reported to have said.
“What I said about Baris Alper Yilmaz, I am now saying even more strongly about Osimhen. No matter how much the price is, I am not selling Osimhen.”
Galatasaray have already demonstrated their determination to keep the striker this summer. They reportedly rejected a €130 million (£111m) offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, despite the enormous financial value of the proposal.
Nevertheless, Turkish outlet Sozcu claims Arsenal remain “determined” to pursue Osimhen, with the striker reportedly viewed as a more accessible target than Alvarez.
For Arsenal, the situation means any attempt to sign Osimhen is likely to require significant negotiation, particularly with Galatasaray showing little willingness to sell. Arteta will therefore have to decide whether to continue pushing for the Nigerian forward or explore alternative targets before the transfer window shuts.
Arsenal are due to face Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday before beginning their Premier League campaign against newly promoted Coventry on Friday night.