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Arsenal send formal interest letter to Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen
English Premier League champions Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Galatasaray and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen by sending the Turkish club a formal letter of interest.
The approach is understood to be an initial expression of intent rather than a formal transfer offer, according to a report by Dean James AFC on X. Galatasaray are waiting for an official bid before deciding whether to begin serious negotiations for the 27-year-old.
Arsenal’s move places them among the clubs monitoring Osimhen as the summer transfer window enters a decisive stage. Manchester United have also contacted Galatasaray to ask about the Nigeria international, but their enquiry does not represent an offer and there is no agreement between the clubs.
The interest in Osimhen comes as Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options. Arsenal have previously been linked with Atletico de Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, although reports indicate that the financial demands of a possible deal have encouraged the Premier League champions to consider alternatives.
Osimhen would provide a different profile to the Arsenal attack. The striker is known for his pace and power, his ability to run into space and his threat in the penalty area. His performances for Galatasaray have helped establish him as one of the most sought-after forwards available this summer.
Manchester United’s involvement could make the situation more difficult for Arsenal. United are also seeking a centre-forward and their approach to Galatasaray indicates that Osimhen is being considered as a serious target. However, the contact remains an enquiry and does not mean the club have made a formal bid.
A significant financial hurdle could stand in the way of any transfer. A deal for Osimhen has the potential to become an African transfer record, while Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek has said the club do not intend to sell the former Napoli striker this summer.
It is believed that Galatasaray would need to receive a substantial fee before considering a departure. Recent reports have suggested that a bid of more than £100m could be required to persuade the Turkish club to part with Osimhen.
The player has so far adopted a cautious approach when discussing speculation about his future. Following Galatasaray’s 2-2 draw with Corum FK, Osimhen said transfer rumours were “part of the season” and that he was concentrating on his work before considering what might happen next.
Arsenal’s next step could determine whether their interest develops into a significant contest with Manchester United or remains an early enquiry during the closing stages of a busy summer window.
