Galatasaray have rejected a staggering £128 million (€150 million) offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal for striker Victor Osimhen, a key transfer target for Arsenal. The Turkish club's president, Dursun Özbek, has categorically refused the bid, reiterating that the Nigeria international is not for sale.
Arsenal's interest in Osimhen and other targets
Arsenal are looking to add to their title-winning squad before the summer transfer window closes. Despite efforts from manager Mikel Arteta, the Gunners appear set to miss out on Julián Álvarez, who remains determined to join Barcelona if he leaves Atlético Madrid this summer. Last week, Osimhen emerged as another option on Arsenal's radar. The 27-year-old has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, admired by Manchester United over the years and having come close to joining Chelsea in 2024.
Osimhen has just begun his third season in Turkey. Arsenal enquired into his availability during talks with Galatasaray over possible moves for Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri. However, Arsenal's interest is not thought to have progressed any further at this stage.
Al-Hilal's increased offer and Galatasaray's response
Saudi side Al-Hilal have made the biggest move for the striker so far. They initially made a verbal offer of €130 million (£112 million), ready to pay Osimhen an astronomical €50 million (£42.7 million) a year. Galatasaray responded by telling Al-Hilal they have no intention of selling their prized asset, but the Saudi side remained undeterred.
According to Türkiye Gazetesi, Al-Hilal have now increased their offer to a huge €150 million (£128 million). Gala president Dursun Özbek has 'categorically rejected' the offer, once again informing the Saudi club they are not interested in selling. The report adds that Osimhen has indicated money is not a priority for him when it comes to deciding his future.
Osimhen's Champions League ambition and potential move
Reports elsewhere in Turkey have suggested Osimhen would be open to a move to Arsenal. In an exclusive interview with Metro last year, former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel claimed Osimhen was keen to join a club capable of winning the Champions League and advised him against a move to the Saudi Pro League.
'I think we want to see him in the Champions League so maybe Arsenal might be the destination. Maybe there is a door open there for Victor,' said Obi Mikel, who was involved in Chelsea's failed bid to sign Osimhen two years ago. 'I've had a few conversations with him. I won't say much about what those conversations were but he is working to make sure he ends up at a top, top European league where he can showcase his talent and compete to win the Champions League.'
