Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have reportedly been dealt a major blow in their pursuit of Victor Osimhen after Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek made it clear that the striker is not for sale this summer.
Osimhen has once again emerged as one of the most sought-after forwards in the transfer market, with several Premier League clubs understood to be monitoring his situation in Istanbul.
Arsenal have been strongly linked with the Nigeria international as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options, while Chelsea and Manchester United have also previously held an interest in the prolific striker.
However, Galatasaray appear determined to prevent Osimhen from leaving. Reports in Turkey claim Ozbek has told those close to the club that he will reject any proposal for the 27-year-old, regardless of the financial package involved.
The stance represents a significant obstacle for Arsenal in particular. Recent reports have suggested that the Premier League champions have held discussions with Galatasaray regarding Osimhen, with the forward increasingly viewed as a potential alternative to other attacking targets
Ozbek told insiders: “I will not say ‘yes’ to any transaction that will harm Galatasaray or not benefit Galatasaray. 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.
For CHELSEA and Arsenal, Osimhen would represent another potential solution to their long-standing search for a reliable goalscorer, while Manchester United could also view his profile as suitable for their attacking rebuild.
Nevertheless, Galatasaray’s position means any potential deal would currently appear extremely difficult.
There have even been reports of a substantial bid from Saudi Arabia being rejected, underlining the Turkish club’s determination to retain their star forward.
With the summer transfer window approaching its conclusion, Arsenal, CHELSEA and United may therefore be forced to consider alternative targets unless Galatasaray’s stance changes.
MORE BIG CHELSEA NEWS AND GOSSIP
Latest: Chelsea agreement close for attacker – Alsono green lights £65M move – Chelsea in talks for powerhouse deal
Top Read: Attacker excited after Chelsea deal done – Striker Tells Alonso he wants Chelsea – Blues announce deal for winger!
Must Check Out: Alonso closes in £64M signing after deal done – Fans to give £100M star ‘warm welcome’ – Blues talks sign £80M Forward