Arsenal remain interested in signing Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen but have reportedly told the Nigeria international that he must reduce his salary demands to complete a move to the Premier League club.
Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his attacking options before the summer transfer window closes, with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez also reportedly on Arsenal’s shortlist.
However, Atletico are said to be unwilling to sell Alvarez, while the Argentine reportedly prefers a move to Barcelona over a return to England.
According to FootMercato, Arsenal have opened talks over a possible deal for Osimhen, who is reportedly highly rated by Arteta. The Gunners are said to have no plans to make an excessive offer and will not match the striker’s current Galatasaray salary, reportedly worth more than €20 million (£17.1 million) annually.
Osimhen will therefore have to decide whether to accept a reduced salary package at Arsenal or remain with Galatasaray.
Galatasaray have already rejected a €130 million (£111 million) bid from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal for the 27-year-old this month, with club president Dursun Ozbek reportedly determined to keep the striker.
Al-Hilal have since ended their pursuit of Osimhen and turned their attention to Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins, although their latest £45 million offer for the England international has reportedly been rejected.
Osimhen further underlined his value on Friday, August 21, scoring twice in Galatasaray’s 4-0 away win over Erzurumspor. He had also netted twice in their 2-2 draw against newly promoted Corum FK in the opening game of the Super Lig season.
Despite the ongoing transfer speculation, Osimhen has refused to rule out either staying in Turkey or making a move before the transfer window closes.
“There are always rumours during the transfer windows. I’ll focus on my job. I’m focused on my work. We’ll see and think about what comes next then,” he said.
