Arsenal have discussed Victor Osimhen with Galatasaray as part of wider talks involving the Turkish club’s interest in Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, according to The Telegraph.
Galatasaray have submitted a £38.4 million offer for Martinelli and also expressed interest in Nwaneri, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Marseille.
The discussions with Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta have been diverse, with Osimhen’s name entering the picture.
It remains unclear whether Arsenal raised the possibility of signing the Nigeria international or whether Galatasaray made the striker available as part of the negotiations.
Arsenal have long-standing interest in Osimhen, although the 27-year-old was behind Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez on their list of preferred striker targets.
Alvarez remains Arsenal’s first choice, but Atletico’s £100m-plus valuation is a problem, plus he seemingly wants to move to Barcelona.
The Gunners are considering alternative options and have turned to Osimhen.
The Nigerian international has established himself as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards during spells with Napoli and Galatasaray.
Last term, he bagged 22 goals and eight assists to spearhead Galatasaray to the league title, just as he led Napoli to their third Scudetto after 33 years.
Osimhen outperformed Julian Alvarez last season and is a better fit for the centre-forward role. He is one of the best in the world aerially and a physically dominant juggernaut on his day.
If Mikel Arteta can rein in his overly aggressive tendencies, he can be the top centre-forward the Gunners need to hold on to their Premier League crown.
It remains unclear whether Arsenal will pursue a deal for the former Lille man or what will happen to Martinelli and Nwaneri.
Osimhen has also been linked with Tottenham Hotspur, who are looking to strengthen their attack, potentially setting up an intriguing battle between the north London rivals.
They remain interested in Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa. The Europa League champions are holding firm on their £60m asking price, despite Arsenal attempting to negotiate a lower fee.
Konsa is reportedly open to joining Arsenal but is unlikely to force an exit.