Arsenal hold transfer talks over Victor Osimhen swap deal with Galatasaray
Arsenal have opened negotiations with Galatasaray over a potential swap deal for striker Victor Osimhen as the Premier League club look to offload Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri.
The Gunners are actively searching for a world-class forward after missing out on Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and finding Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez too expensive.
Discussions were initially sparked by the Turkish giants, who approached Arsenal regarding the availability of Martinelli and Nwaneri.
During these negotiations, the possibility of bringing the Nigeria international to North London emerged as a stunning counter-option.
Galatasaray target Arsenal duo
Mikel Arteta is reportedly willing to part ways with both Martinelli and Nwaneri during the current summer transfer window to balance his squad.
Reports suggest that Galatasaray have already tabled a £38.4m bid for Martinelli, who has entered the final year of his current contract.
The Istanbul-based club are also exploring a move for Nwaneri following his reported loan spell with Marseille last season.
Martinelli appears poised to end his seven-year association with the North London side, having registered 62 goals in 278 appearances.
Osimhen’s prolific record
Osimhen has established himself as one of Europe’s most feared goalscorers and was strongly linked with a move to Tottenham earlier this summer.
The powerful striker only finalised a permanent £64m switch to Galatasaray from Napoli last year following a highly successful initial loan period.
He boasts an impressive return of 59 goals and 16 assists in just 74 appearances for the Turkish champions.
Securing the former Napoli star would significantly bolster Arsenal’s attacking depth, but hinges entirely on their ability to generate funds through player sales.
Arteta prioritises squad improvement
Arsenal’s manager acknowledges that departures are necessary to create space and free up financial resources for new acquisitions.
“There is more that we want to do, because every time we have an opportunity to improve the squad and bring more quality and depth, we need to do that.”
Arteta added that while the club’s desire to strengthen is unquestionable, the complexities of the transfer market mean nothing can be guaranteed.
“We’re actively trying to do so – the thing is, in the market, it doesn’t just depend on you, and we’re very clear on that.”