‘Galatasaray To Tie Down Osimhen Amid Arsenal, Manchester United Interest’

Galatasaray are stepping up efforts to keep Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen out of the reach of Europe’s elite clubs, with Manchester United and Arsenal reportedly preparing huge bids for the Super Eagles star.

Naija News reports that the Turkish champions have already demonstrated their commitment by turning Osimhen’s loan spell into a permanent move in a deal worth €75 million, setting a new Turkish transfer record.

The 27-year-old justified that investment in style, firing Galatasaray to another Super Lig title and playing a key role in the club’s impressive UEFA Champions League campaign.

His performances have once again attracted interest from across Europe. Atlético Madrid are understood to have seen a verbal offer of €120 million rejected as Galatasaray stand firm over their prized asset.

Despite growing attention from some of the continent’s biggest clubs, Galatasaray are determined to keep the former Napoli forward in Istanbul and are reportedly preparing a major gesture to show his importance.

According to reports in Turkey via Soccernet, the club are considering handing Osimhen the captain’s armband ahead of the 2026/27 season. The move would place him at the heart of Galatasaray’s long-term sporting project as they prepare for another domestic title challenge and a fresh Champions League campaign.

Head coach Okan Buruk is said to be fully supportive of the proposal. The former Turkey international has repeatedly highlighted Osimhen’s influence in the dressing room, leadership qualities and relentless work ethic.

The captaincy plan is also linked to the future of current skipper Mauro Icardi. Should the Argentine striker leave during the transfer window, Osimhen is expected to inherit Galatasaray’s iconic No. 9 shirt.

The Nigerian forward previously turned down the captain’s armband during a match, choosing instead to show respect to senior midfielder İlkay Gündoğan. Galatasaray are now keen to make the leadership role permanent as a sign of the value they place on him.

Interest in Osimhen from the Premier League continues to intensify:

Manchester United are reportedly among the leading contenders for Osimhen’s signature. New manager Michael Carrick is believed to view the striker as a priority target following the club’s third-place finish in the Premier League.

With Joshua Zirkzee expected to depart Old Trafford, United see Osimhen as the proven goalscorer capable of spearheading their attack alongside Benjamin Šeško.

Reports suggest the Red Devils could be willing to spend between £110 million and £130 million in an attempt to prise him away from Galatasaray. Osimhen has previously described speculation linking him with Manchester United as an honour, although he has left transfer discussions to his representatives.

Arsenal are also pushing hard for the Nigerian international. Manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly interested in the Nigerian international.

Sporting director Andrea Berta is said to have held talks with Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek as Arsenal explores a possible deal. The North London club are reportedly considering a package worth around €130 million, with the overall financial commitment potentially rising to £200 million when wages and bonuses are included.

Chelsea remain admirers of the striker but are currently taking a more cautious approach than their Premier League rivals.

Osimhen currently earns around €15 million per year, a record-breaking salary that makes him the highest-paid player in Turkish football history.