Victor Osimhen Unlikely to Leave Galatasaray Despite Arsenal Interest

Victor Osimhen is unlikely to depart Galatasaray this summer despite recent reports linking the Nigerian striker with a move to Arsenal, a reliable source informed SportsBoom. 

Speculation regarding a transfer to North London intensified after Arsenal Sporting Director Andrea Berta was spotted at Rams Park during the Istanbul derby. 

Berta was seen alongside Galatasaray President Dursun Özbek, fuelling rumours that preliminary discussions were underway for the forward.

Also in attendance were Arsenal’s Senior Recruitment and Scouting Executive, Mauricio Micheli, and prominent agent George Gardi. 

The delegation witnessed Osimhen score in a 3-0 victory over rivals Fenerbahce, a result that bolstered Galatasaray’s hunt for a consecutive domestic title.

Osimhen to Arsenal "a mere rumour" 

However, Buchi Laba, a reliable source close to the player, has dismissed these reports as a mere rumour. 

Speaking exclusively to SportsBoom, Laba clarified that the meeting between the club executives was focused on institutional growth rather than transfer business.

"The meeting was not about Victor Osimhen or player-related matters," Laba stated. 

"There were no negotiations, and no player names were mentioned. What has been circulated in the media is fake and nothing more".

While clubs like Barcelona have also been credited with an interest, Buchi disclosed that Galatasaray has placed a huge price tag on the player which remains a significant hurdle and he noted that Osimhen is happy at the club and a summer move is unlikely.

The Turkish champions signed Osimhen on a permanent deal worth approximately €75 million from Napoli earlier this season after PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester United failed to finalize a move.

Current indications suggest Galatasaray intends to keep their star asset, who still has four years remaining on his contract. 

The club has reportedly placed a €100 million price tag on the striker to deter suitors.

Despite an injury-interrupted campaign, Osimhen has remained prolific, recording 13 goals and four assists in 20 league appearances, and 21 goals across all competitions. This follows a historic debut season in Turkey where he netted 37 goals in 41 matches.