Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen has appeared to signal his openness to a move to Arsenal as Mikel Arteta continues his search for a top striker before the summer transfer window closes.
The Nigeria international has been repeatedly linked with Arsenal in recent years, and the possibility of a move to the Premier League champions has resurfaced during talks involving the two clubs.
The 27-year-old joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli last summer after spending the previous season on loan at the Turkish club.
He has since continued his remarkable run of domestic success, winning league titles in three consecutive seasons after helping Napoli claim the Serie A title in 2023 and then securing back-to-back Turkish Super Lig crowns with Galatasaray.
Arsenal consider Osimhen option
Osimhen’s future at Galatasaray remains uncertain despite the Turkish champions’ firm stance that the striker is not for sale.
Galatasaray have reportedly received significant offers for the Nigerian from Atletico Madrid and Al-Hilal, while Arsenal’s interest has continued to feature in transfer discussions.
The possibility of Osimhen moving to the Emirates was reportedly discussed during negotiations involving Arsenal players Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Martinelli.
Should the move materialise, Osimhen could also take over Arsenal’s No. 9 shirt, currently worn by Gabriel Jesus.
Jesus is reportedly attracting interest from Napoli and could leave the club before the transfer window closes, potentially creating an opening for Arsenal to bring in a new centre-forward.
Arteta promises more transfer activity
Arteta has made it clear that Arsenal are not finished in the transfer market despite their strong start to the new season.
The Gunners impressively began their campaign by beating Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield, with summer signing Christos Tzolis providing two assists.
Arsenal have already spent around £110 million on Tzolis and Bruno Guimaraes but remain keen to strengthen further as they target a Premier League title challenge.
‘We are actively trying to do so,’ Arteta said when asked about further recruitment.
‘There is more that we want to do because every time we have an opportunity to improve the squad and bring more quality and depth to the squad, we need to do that.’
Arteta, however, acknowledged that Arsenal’s ability to complete further deals will depend on negotiations with other clubs.
‘The thing in the market is that it doesn’t just depend on you. We are very clear on that,’ he added.
Osimhen remains on Arsenal’s radar
Osimhen’s proven record in front of goal makes him an attractive option for Arteta as Arsenal seek greater attacking depth.
The striker has established himself as one of Europe’s leading forwards and could provide the physicality, pace and goalscoring threat required to spearhead Arsenal’s attack.
With the transfer window approaching its deadline, Arsenal’s interest in Osimhen could become one of the major stories of the summer market’s closing stages.