Arsenal target Victor Osimhen told he will stay at Galatasaray

Arsenal’s plans to strengthen their attack have been complicated after Galatasaray made it clear that Victor Osimhen will not be allowed to leave before the summer transfer window closes.

The London club have identified the Nigeria striker as a potential alternative to Julian Alvarez, whose current club Atletico de Madrid are reportedly demanding £150m for his departure.

Arsenal remain interested in Osimhen, but Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek is refusing to consider a sale. The Turkish club have already rejected a €130m offer, worth about £111m, from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.

According to 343 Digital, Ozbek told people close to him: “I will not approve any deal that harms Galatasaray or does not serve the club’s interests. No matter how much money is offered, I will not sell Osimhen.”

The stance represents a significant obstacle for Arsenal, who are assessing their options in attack after a difficult period in negotiations over Alvarez. Despite Galatasaray’s position, Turkish newspaper Sozcu reported that Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta remain determined to sign Osimhen.

Metro, which cited the report, said Arsenal view the Nigeria international as a less complicated target than Alvarez.

Osimhen joined Galatasaray from Napoli for €75m and has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances for the Turkish club. He has also helped Galatasaray win the league title in each of the past two seasons.

However, the striker has not completely ruled out a move. Speaking after Galatasaray’s opening league game of the season, Osimhen said: “There are always rumours during transfer windows. I will focus on my work, and then we will see what happens.”

Arsenal’s interest comes after an inconsistent season for Viktor Gyokeres, who joined the club for £64m last summer. The London side are continuing to consider how best to improve their attacking options, with Osimhen regarded by Arteta and the club as a strong possibility if a deal can be reached.

Former Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel has previously advised Osimhen to move to a club competing in the Champions League. He believes Arsenal could be a suitable destination, given the striker’s desire to play in Europe’s premier club competition and prove himself in one of the major leagues.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Osimhen has also coincided with Galatasaray’s own unsuccessful attempt to recruit Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazil forward is Arsenal’s longest-serving player, but the Turkish club have so far been unable to persuade him to move to the Turkish league.

For now, Galatasaray’s refusal to sell leaves Arsenal facing a difficult decision. They can continue trying to negotiate for Osimhen, despite Ozbek’s firm message, or return their focus to other attacking targets while Alvarez’s £150m valuation remains a major barrier.