Victor Osimhen is reportedly willing to consider a move to Arsenal, but any transfer will depend on Galatasaray changing their stance and accepting an offer for the Nigerian striker.
Arsenal’s interest emerged during discussions with Galatasaray over the Turkish club’s pursuit of Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri. Osimhen’s availability was reportedly raised during those talks, although no formal bid or agreement has been announced.
The Premier League champions are assessing their attacking options as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad for another demanding domestic and European campaign.
Viktor Gyokeres endured an inconsistent debut season despite producing several important performances, while uncertainty continues to surround Gabriel Jesus’ future at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal also explored the possibility of signing Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez earlier in the transfer window, but the Spanish club reportedly rejected approaches for the Argentina international.
Galatasaray, however, have no immediate desire to sell Osimhen. The 27-year-old remains one of their most influential players and an important part of their plans to retain the Turkish title and compete strongly in Europe.
Why signing Osimhen would be difficult for Arsenal
Osimhen first joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in September 2024 and recorded 37 goals and eight assists in 41 appearances during his first season in Turkey.
His goals helped Galatasaray win the Turkish Super Lig and Turkish Cup, convincing the Istanbul club to make the transfer permanent.
Galatasaray paid Napoli €75 million for Osimhen in July 2025, making him the most expensive signing in Turkish football history. He signed a four-year contract running until 2029, leaving the club under no immediate pressure to sell.
The agreement also entitles Napoli to 10 per cent of any profit Galatasaray make from a future transfer. That condition could influence the amount the Turkish champions demand before allowing the striker to leave.
A possible deal involving Martinelli or Nwaneri could reduce Arsenal’s cash payment, but any player-exchange arrangement would still require separate agreements on valuations, wages and personal terms.
Osimhen would offer Arsenal pace, physical strength, aerial ability and aggressive movement behind opposition defences. He also has experience performing under pressure, having helped Napoli win the 2022–23 Serie A title while finishing as the league’s leading scorer.
The Super Eagles forward has continued to demonstrate his scoring ability in Turkey and began the 2026–27 Super Lig season with two goals in Galatasaray’s opening match.
Osimhen’s reported willingness to move to London could make negotiations easier if Arsenal submit an offer. However, the decisive factor remains whether Galatasaray receive a proposal significant enough to justify selling their record signing.
Until a formal bid is submitted and accepted, discussions surrounding Osimhen’s possible move to Arsenal remain at the exploratory stage.
