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Report: Arsenal haven’t ended talks for 27yo striker

Arsenal reportedly remain in talks with Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen, contrary to recent claims in the English media.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Trendyol Süper Lig match between Galatasaray SK and Fenerbahçe SK at Rams Park Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images

Sebastien Denis reports for Foot Mercato that despite what has been claimed in England this week, Arsenal are still in talks with Galatasaray over the potential transfer of Victor Osimhen.

Denis claims the player’s huge salary is the main sticking point, with Osimhen’s €20m net annual wages making Arsenal think twice. The Gunners have no intention of making an unreasonable offer.

The report suggests the ball is now in the striker’s court, and if he’ll lower his demands, he could get the chance to play in the Premier League.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray warms up during the Trendyol Süper Lig match between Galatasaray SK and Fenerbahçe SK at Rams Park Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images

James McNicholas had reported for The Athletic earlier in the week that there are no active negotiations between Arsenal and Galatasaray over a potential transfer for Osimhen, a claim that Foot Mercato are evidently disputing.

McNicholas suggested the two clubs have been in dialogue over several players, but not currently Osimhen.

Matt Law had initially reported for The Telegraph that during talks between Arsenal and Galatasaray over Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, the topic of Osimhen’s availability was raised.

Law wrote that it was unclear whether Arsenal’s Andrea Berta suggested the move, or whether the striker was offered to the Gunners.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S.
Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images

Yet club president Dursun Ozbek has reportedly said that no matter how much money is offered, he’s not selling Osimhen.

The reporting on this story is a little scattershot at the moment. Either Arsenal are in talks, or they aren’t. Either the issue is Galatasaray’s refusal to sell, or Osimhen’s wage demands.

The one thing everyone seems to agree on is that a deal isn’t currently close. Whether that could change in the final week of the transfer window depends on which sources you believe.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY - NOVEMBER 7: Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Galatasaray A.S. and Tottenham Hotspur at Rams Park on November 7, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images
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