Osimhen Rejects Record Arsenal Offer Amidst Transfer Frenzy

Victor Osimhen, the prolific Galatasaray striker, has significantly impacted the ongoing summer transfer window by reportedly turning down an unprecedented salary offer from Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal. This decision, which could have made him the highest-earning African footballer globally, underscores his strong preference for a move to the English Premier League, keeping clubs like Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur firmly in the race for his signature.

According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu and confirmed by Le Marca Sports, Al Hilal, led by Prince Nawaf Bin Saad, offered a staggering €150 million to Galatasaray for Osimhen's transfer. Furthermore, Osimhen himself was proposed an annual salary of €50 million. If accepted, this sum would have more than doubled his current Galatasaray salary, which is estimated at €21 million per year, including bonuses, tax treatment, and brand rights. This offer also surpassed the €52.2 million annual pay previously earned by Algeria's Riyad Mahrez, who was the highest-paid African player until recently. Mahrez held this distinction until Al-Ahli announced his exit last month. Osimhen's rejection of such a lucrative financial package highlights his clear ambition to compete at the highest level of European football, specifically the Premier League.

Despite Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek's firm stance that he is not selling Osimhen, the striker's desire to test himself in England remains a dominant factor. He has spent the last two seasons in Turkey after moving from Napoli, where he helped secure major domestic honors and established himself as one of Europe's most productive strikers. A move to England would fulfill a long-standing career ambition, as he has been linked with the competition multiple times.

Both North London rivals, Arsenal and Tottenham, have shown considerable interest. Tottenham's need for attacking reinforcement is particularly acute, having finished a disappointing 17th in the 2025-26 Premier League season and narrowly avoiding relegation with a final-day victory over Everton. Reports suggested Spurs made an initial approach in the range of £50 million to £55 million, though Galatasaray was reportedly holding out for closer to £65 million. Their recruitment efforts since then have focused on bolstering their attacking options for manager Roberto De Zerbi.

Arsenal's interest has also intensified. The Gunners have held discussions with Galatasaray on various player matters, during which Osimhen's availability was a notable topic. Manager Mikel Arteta, despite having secured the 2025-26 Premier League title with 85 points and reached the Champions League final, is keen on adding more attacking depth. He already has Viktor Gyökeres, signed for £55 million in July 2025 after scoring 97 goals in 102 matches for Sporting, and Kai Havertz, who has successfully operated as a central forward in key Premier League matches.

However, not everyone is convinced Osimhen is the perfect fit for Arsenal. Club legend Alan Smith expressed doubts, telling Gooners News,