Arsenal have made a decision over a potential transfer for Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, telling the Nigeria international he would need to lower his salary demands to complete a move to north London. The club remain interested in signing the 27-year-old but have no intention of matching his current contract, which is worth more than €20 million (£17.1 million) per year.
Arsenal's attacking search and the Osimhen option
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. Osimhen must therefore decide whether to accept a lower salary package from Arsenal or remain at Galatasaray.
Galatasaray's firm stance and Al-Hilal's rejected bid
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's form and his response to speculation
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.'
