Victor Osimhen to Arsenal? Transfer expert clarifies Super Eagles striker’s future

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been linked with a move to Arsenal, but transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided clarity on the future of the Galatasaray striker, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old has been at the centre of attention again this summer, with Galatasaray turning down a €130m offer from Al-Hilal to keep their star striker in Istanbul.

The rumours intensified after reports suggested that Arsenal had discussed the Nigerian during negotiations with Galatasaray over Gabriel Martinelli. However, Romano has now moved to dismiss suggestions that the Gunners are actively negotiating for Osimhen.

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Victor Osimhen: Fabrizio Romano plays down Arsenal speculation

According to the Italian journalist, there have been no negotiations between Arsenal and Galatasaray for the former Napoli striker, with the Turkish champions considering him a key part of their plans.

Osimhen has also given Galatasaray little reason to reconsider their position, having made a flying start to the new campaign with five goals and two assists in his opening three Süper Lig appearances.

“Arsenal have never opened negotiations for Osimhen for one reason: Osimhen is not going anywhere,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.

“He is a crucial part of Galatasaray’s strategy. Osimhen is not for sale.”

The transfer expert went further, arguing that the Nigerian was never a realistic option for Arsenal or any other club at this stage of the window.

“Osimhen was never regarded as an option for any club because he cannot leave. He is content at Galatasaray,” he added

That represents a significant blow to the growing speculation about a move to the Premier League for Osimhen, particularly with Arsenal understood to be searching for another striker before the transfer window slams shut.

How Martinelli sparked the Osimhen speculation

Interestingly, Romano believes the Arsenal-Osimhen link originated from discussions between the two clubs, but not specifically over the Nigerian.

Arsenal and Galatasaray had been in contact regarding Brazilian forward Gabriel Martinelli, who was being considered for a move to Turkey.

“Those rumours were just because Arsenal and Galatasaray were talking about Martinelli but Martinelli didn't want to go to Turkey,” Romano explained.

Ultimately, Galatasaray ended up signing Rafael Leao from AC Milan, putting an end to the Martinelli talks, as well as their hopes of bringing Victor Osimhen to London.

The Portuguese winger was unveiled in front of the CimBom Aslan fans at RAMS Park following Galatasaray's 3-2 win over Goztepe last night.