Arsenal remain hopeful of signing Victor Osimhen from Galatasaray before the transfer window closes, but the Nigeria international has reportedly been told he must lower his salary expectations if a move to north London is to materialise.
The Gunners have identified Osimhen as a potential addition to Mikel Arteta’s attacking options after encountering difficulties in their pursuit of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. Reports from France indicate Arsenal have held discussions over the 27-year-old, but his current financial package is proving a significant obstacle.
Osimhen is understood to earn around £17.1 million a year net at Galatasaray, a figure Arsenal are reportedly unwilling to match. That equates to approximately £329,000 a week after tax, while his overall package is understood to include additional payments linked to loyalty and image rights.
ARSENAL are therefore believed to have made their position clear: Osimhen would need to accept a substantial reduction in his current earnings before the club would consider progressing with a formal offer.
The salary issue could prove decisive as Arsenal weigh whether to make a major investment in another centre-forward. The Premier League champions already have Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz among their attacking options, but Arteta is reportedly keen to add further competition and firepower.
Osimhen has continued to demonstrate his goalscoring credentials since making his move to Galatasaray permanent. The striker scored both of his side’s goals in their opening league fixture this season, rescuing a 2-2 draw against Corum FK and further underlining his importance to the Turkish champions.
Galatasaray are also reluctant to part with their leading forward only a year after completing his permanent signing from Napoli for €75 million. The Turkish club’s official agreement with Osimhen runs for four years and includes a reported net guaranteed salary of €15 million per season, alongside other payments.
However, reports suggest ARSENAL’s interest remains active, particularly with Alvarez’s situation becoming increasingly complicated. Atletico have maintained a firm stance over their Argentine forward, while Arsenal have continued to explore alternatives in their search for another elite attacking option.
Osimhen has also refused to completely rule out leaving Galatasaray this summer, adding further intrigue to the situation.
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