By Dorcas Francis Koji
Manchester United have entered the race to sign Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, with Arsenal also showing concrete interest in the Galatasaray forward as the summer transfer window approaches its close.
United have reportedly contacted Galatasaray to enquire about Osimhen’s availability. However, the initial approach does not represent a formal bid, nor does it suggest that a transfer is imminent.
The development comes as Manchester United prepare for the 2026/27 Premier League season, with manager Michael Carrick looking to strengthen his squad before the campaign begins.
Arsenal are understood to be further along in their pursuit of the Nigeria international, with reports suggesting that an offer of more than £60m could be considered by Galatasaray.
The Gunners reportedly made enquiries about Osimhen during discussions with the Turkish champions over a potential transfer involving Gabriel Martinelli, although any move for Osimhen would be negotiated separately.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has already indicated that the club remains active in the transfer market as he seeks to improve the quality and depth of his squad.
“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 to the squad, we need to do that,” Arteta said.
“We are actively trying to do so. The thing in the market is that it doesn’t just depend on you. We are very clear on that.”
Osimhen, 27, remains one of Europe’s most coveted strikers after an impressive campaign in Turkey.
The Nigerian recorded 28 goal contributions in 33 appearances for Galatasaray last season and has already started the new campaign strongly, scoring twice in the club’s Super Lig opener against Çorum FK.
Galatasaray signed Osimhen permanently from Napoli for €75m in July 2025, handing him a contract that runs until 2029.
His agreement reportedly includes a guaranteed net salary of €15m per season, a €1m loyalty bonus and €5m annually for image rights.
Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek has also confirmed that the contract contains no release clause, meaning interested clubs must negotiate directly with the Turkish champions.
The Istanbul club are reportedly demanding around €150m for their star striker after rejecting a reported €130m offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.
Manchester United have already strengthened their squad this summer with the arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, while Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko are among Carrick’s attacking options.
However, concerns over the striker position have emerged ahead of the new season, particularly with Sesko carrying an injury and Marcus Rashford’s future remaining uncertain after loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona.
United, who finished third in the Premier League last season and secured Champions League qualification, also suffered a 4-2 defeat to AC Milan in their final pre-season fixture.
Despite the growing speculation surrounding his future, Osimhen has insisted that he remains focused on his responsibilities at Galatasaray.
“There are always rumours in transfer seasons. I will take care of my business. I am focused on my job, then we will see and think further,” the striker said after scoring twice in Galatasaray’s league opener.
With both Manchester United and Arsenal now monitoring his situation, Osimhen’s future could become one of the biggest transfer stories before the window closes.
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