Arsenal have been handed a transfer boost following Atletico Madrid's update on Julian Alvarez with Victor Osimhen at the centre of talks ahead of the summer window
19:42, 02 Jun 2026
Victor Osimhen
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Victor Osimhen talks could hint that Julian Alvarez is for sale(Image: Seskim Photo/MB Media/Getty Images)
Atletico Madrid have enquired over the possibility of signing a replacement for Julian Alvarez, in a boost to Arsenal's chances of signing the forward. The La Liga giants have made contact over Victor Osimhen, per AS.
Osimhen is said to have a number of interested suitors, including Manchester United, and Atletico are monitoring the situation in case of Alvarez's departure. The Spanish side are making preparations despite their outward stance that the Argentina international is not for sale.
Osimhen is under contract with Galatasaray until 2029 and is said to be worth £64.8million. The Nigeria international, 27, scored 22 goals in 33 appearances across the Turkish Super Lig and Champions League last term.
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Galatasaray are not expected to facilitate an easy exit after making Osimhen the most expensive signing in Turkish football history. But the striker's salary may prove more prohibitive as he rakes in £13m per season net.
After the sides met in the Champions League, Osimhen spoke highly of Atletico. “I like them," he said.
"I’ve always been a fan of their coach. I’ve met him a couple of times. They play aggressively and have a strong identity.
Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez celebrates
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Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez has been linked with Arsenal (Image: Europa Press via Getty Images)
"The coach has been there for many years, so the players are used to the way he wants them to play. That’s why I’m so impressed with our performance."
Atletico's stance suggests they are more open to Alvarez's exit, providing the right offer arrives. Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo didn't appear to suggest there was an avenue to a transfer, earlier this week.
"Julian Alvarez is an Atlético de Madrid player and not just for this season but for many others," he said. "We work continuously to bring the best players to our team.
"And until August when the league starts, there’s still a lot of time to search, see, and bring them in."
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Atletico have grown frustrated with Barcelona's attempts to lure Alvarez away, though Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal are also interested in his signature.
The French side made contact with Atletico earlier this year but neither team nor player appears to be entirely convinced by the fit. It is claimed that a Premier League return also does not currently appeal to Alvarez.
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