Arsenal hold talks with Galatasaray over potential Victor Osimhen swap deal
Arsenal have reportedly opened discussions with Turkish champions Galatasaray over the possibility of signing Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, with the Nigerian potentially emerging as part of a sensational swap deal involving the Premier League champions’ players, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Galatasaray initially contacted Arsenal regarding forwards Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but Osimhen’s name was also brought into the discussions as the Gunners continue their search for a proven world-class striker.
Arsenal had previously explored moves for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior and Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez. However, Vinicius has committed his future to Madrid, while Alvarez’s reported £100 million-plus valuation has made a deal difficult, with Barcelona also interested in the Argentine.
The latest development has opened the door for Osimhen, who is regarded as one of Europe’s most prolific strikers and has long been linked with a move to the Premier League.
Galatasaray are understood to be interested in Martinelli, with reports claiming the Turkish giants have already made a £38.4 million proposal for the Brazilian. They are also exploring a deal for Nwaneri, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Marseille.
During negotiations over the two Arsenal forwards, Galatasaray reportedly raised the possibility of Osimhen moving in the opposite direction, potentially paving the way for a complicated swap arrangement.
The 27-year-old Nigerian joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli last summer for €75 million after a successful loan spell. He has since scored 59 goals and registered 16 assists in 74 appearances for the Istanbul giants, while his contract runs until June 2029.
Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s Turkish Super Lig triumph last season, finishing as the club’s leading scorer and helping them retain the title.
Martinelli, meanwhile, appears increasingly likely to leave Arsenal after seven years at the club. The Brazilian has made 278 appearances and scored 62 goals, but with his contract entering its final year, Arsenal are reportedly prepared to listen to offers.
Osimhen was also on target in Galatasaray’s 2-1 pre-season defeat to Villarreal, further underlining his importance to the Turkish champions as speculation over his future continues.
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