Arsenal have moved up a gear in their pursuit of Victor Osimhen, with senior figures now actively exploring a summer deal for the Galatasaray striker, Footynaija reports.
Interest in the Nigeria international has been building for months, but recent developments suggest the club are now taking concrete steps.
Reports indicate that sporting director Andrea Berta travelled to Istanbul, where he watched the heated clash between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe. During that visit, discussions were held with club president Dursun Özbek as Arsenal began to assess the feasibility of a transfer.
🚨MAJOR BREAKING! 💣
— AFC Xtra (@AFC__Xtra) April 27, 2026
Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, attended the Istanbul derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe.
He initiated contacts regarding Victor Osimhen. 🇳🇬 🦅
ℹ️ @mozgursancar pic.twitter.com/ujPN1WE27c
Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta are convinced the need for a reliable centre-forward has become increasingly clear. Arsenal have impressed domestically and in Europe this season, but there is a growing feeling that a clinical striker could be the missing piece in their push for major trophies.
Osimhen’s profile, which includes pace, strength, aerial ability and sharp finishing, makes him an ideal fit. The 27-year-old has continued to deliver in Turkey. He has scored 13 league goals and added four assists in just 20 appearances this season, following a remarkable previous campaign in which he struck 37 times in 41 matches across all competitions. His recent goal in the derby win over Fenerbahçe only reinforced his reputation as a player for big moments, with several top European scouts in attendance.
Victor Osimhen to Arsenal
— Arsenal Radar (@ArsenalRadar) April 28, 2026
Thoughts? #afc pic.twitter.com/mo2QfDKi6k
However, any deal would require significant financial commitment. Galatasaray are expected to demand a fee close to £100 million (approx. ₦184 billion), which would set a new benchmark for a transfer from the Turkish top flight.
When wages and bonuses are included, the overall package could approach £200 million over five years. Osimhen’s current salary is believed to be around £17.5 million annually, meaning Arsenal would need to offer terms in line with their highest earners.
Despite that, Arsenal are well placed to compete financially. Rising revenues, boosted by strong performances in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, have strengthened their position under modern spending rules.
A move for Osimhen could also trigger changes within the squad, as Arsenal look to reshape their attack and turn promise into silverware.

















