Arsenal has entered the race to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, alongside Premier League rivals and Paris Saint-Germain, with a potential January bid being explored for the Galatasaray loanee.
Transfer expert Pete O’Rourke revealed Arsenal’s interest as the Gunners plan to bolster their attack before the transfer window closes.
The 26-year-old, on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli since September 2024 after failed moves to Chelsea and Saudi Arabia, has excelled with 14 goals and six assists in 18 appearances this season.
While Osimhen’s release clause drops to €75m next summer, a January move could cost around €90m, with Galatasaray entitled to a share. However, the Turkish club insists the striker will stay until season’s end despite growing interest.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis reacted strongly to Osimhen rejecting a Manchester United swap deal for Marcus Rashford, stating: “Then let him stay where he is.”
Osimhen’s Napoli contract runs until 2026, extendable to 2027. His €10m salary is partly subsidised by Galatasaray, who currently pay €6m.
The striker’s influence has been pivotal for Galatasaray, leaving them as the only unbeaten side among Europe’s top eight leagues in all competitions. Yet, former Galatasaray manager Hamza Hamzaoğlu acknowledged the club’s financial limitations in securing a permanent deal.
Paris Saint-Germain remain interested in Osimhen, with manager Luis Enrique potentially pairing him with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who joined this month. Liverpool have also identified Osimhen as a replacement for Darwin Núñez, who is attracting Saudi interest.
Osimhen, however, remains committed to Galatasaray. After a brace against Tottenham in the Europa League, he said: “I will not leave in January. I am at Galatasaray until the end of the season.”
Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba confirmed this stance, writing on social media: “Victor Osimhen rejected every offer in January 2025 to stay at Galatasaray and win trophies.”
