Arsenal have identified Victor Osimhen as an alternative target to Julián Álvarez as Mikel Arteta continues his search for another striker before the transfer window closes.
According to Mail Sport’s Simon Jones, Álvarez remains Arsenal’s dream striker signing, although the forward’s preference for a move to Barcelona is making a deal increasingly difficult.
Atlético Madrid are also reluctant to see Álvarez join Barcelona, leaving Arsenal with an opportunity if the situation between the Argentine and his current club continues to deteriorate.
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However, Arsenal are also preparing for the possibility that they cannot land their preferred target, with Galatasaray forward Osimhen emerging as an alternative.
The Nigeria international has been on Arsenal’s radar for some time and would provide Arteta with another proven option in the centre-forward position.
Osimhen enjoyed another prolific spell in Turkey after joining Galatasaray permanently following his initial loan move from Napoli. His goalscoring record and physical profile make him an attractive option for Arsenal as they look to add further quality to their attack.
The Gunners’ interest in Osimhen also comes with the club continuing to assess several other areas of the squad during the final days of the window.
Arsenal are currently working through a significant amount of movement in their attacking department, with Gabriel Martinelli closing in on a move to Al Hilal in a deal worth around £50million.
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Ethan Nwaneri is also expected to leave on loan, while Reiss Nelson is poised to join West Ham.
Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye is another player Arsenal admire as they consider their options on the left side.
For now, however, Álvarez remains the priority.
Arsenal still have a chance of signing the Atlético forward if his situation at the Spanish club continues to worsen, but his desire to join Barcelona means the Gunners cannot afford to rely entirely on that possibility.
That has led Arsenal to keep alternative options in mind, with Osimhen now emerging as one of the most significant names on their striker shortlist.
With just days remaining before the transfer window closes, Arsenal’s decision on their next forward could therefore depend on whether they can finally make progress with Álvarez or are forced to move for their alternative.