Arsenal send ‘formal letter of interest’ for Super Eagles star

English Premier League champions Arsenal have stepped up their interest in Super Eagles and Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Gunners have sent a formal letter of interest to Galatasaray over a possible deal for Victor Osimhen, according to a report by Dean James AFC on X.

The move is an early step rather than a formal transfer offer. Galatasaray are understood to be waiting for an official bid before deciding whether to open serious talks over the 27-year-old Nigeria striker.

The development gives Arsenal a clear position in a transfer race that has become more crowded. Manchester United have also contacted Galatasaray to ask about Osimhen, although their enquiry is not a bid and there is no agreement between the clubs.

Arsenal face a tough battle for Osimhen

Arsenal's interest comes as Mikel Arteta looks to add more firepower to his attack. The club had also been linked with Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, but reports suggest the cost of that deal has pushed Arsenal towards other options.

Osimhen offers a different type of striker. He is a powerful runner, attacks space quickly and is a strong threat inside the penalty area. His record at Galatasaray has also made him one of the most wanted forwards available this summer.

Manchester United's involvement makes the situation harder for Arsenal. United are also looking for a centre-forward and have now made an enquiry about the Nigerian. The club's contact with Galatasaray shows that Osimhen is being considered as a serious option, but it does not mean United have made a formal offer.

There is also a major financial obstacle, in what could be an African transfer record deal. Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek insists the club has no intention of parting with the former Napoli man this summer and it could take a hefty transfer fee to convince him otherwise. Recent reports have put the price required to tempt Galatasaray at more than £100m.

Osimhen himself has kept his response measured. After the 2-2 draw with Corum FK, he said transfer rumours were part of the season and that he was focused on his work before thinking about what comes next.

The next move from Arsenal could therefore decide whether this becomes a serious battle for Osimhen or ends as another enquiry during a busy final stage of the summer window.