Galatasaray have ruled out selling Victor Osimhen to Arsenal before the transfer window closes, according to reports in Turkey. President Dursun Ozbek is privately adamant that the Nigerian striker will not be sold under any circumstances, even as Arsenal have discussed a potential move during talks with the Turkish club over Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri.
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray permanently in a €75 million (£64.8m) deal from Napoli last summer, has been pivotal in securing consecutive league titles, scoring 59 goals in 74 appearances over the past two seasons. His form has attracted interest from several clubs, but Galatasaray's stance appears firm.
Osimhen's Future in Question After Opening Draw
When asked about his future after scoring twice in Galatasaray's 2-2 draw against newly promoted Corum FK in the Super Lig opener on Friday night, Osimhen did not dismiss the possibility of a move. 'There are always rumours during the transfer windows,' he said. 'I'll focus on my job. I'm focused on my work. We'll see and think about what comes next then.'
Despite the player's comments, 343 Digital reports that Ozbek has told his inner circle he will not sanction a sale. 'I will not say 'yes' to any transaction that will harm Galatasaray or not benefit Galatasaray,' Ozbek is quoted as saying. '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.'
Al-Hilal Bid Rejected, Champions League Ambition
Earlier this week, Galatasaray rejected a €130m (£111m) bid from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal for the 27-year-old. The rejection underscores the club's determination to keep their star forward, despite the financial lure of a record fee.
In an exclusive interview with Metro last year, former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel revealed that Osimhen is keen on joining a club capable of winning the Champions 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 negotiations 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.'
Arsenal's Interest and Potential Deal Structure
Arsenal's interest in Osimhen has emerged during discussions over Martinelli and Nwaneri, but any deal would face significant hurdles given Galatasaray's refusal to sell. The Turkish club's president has drawn a line, indicating that no price would change his mind.
The transfer window remains open, and Osimhen's comments have kept speculation alive. However, with Galatasaray's public and private stance, a move to Arsenal appears increasingly unlikely. The club's resolve will be tested if further bids arrive, but for now, Osimhen remains a Galatasaray player.
