Arsenal want Osimhen to accept pay-cut for transfer

Arsenal is seeking Victor Osimhen to agree to a wage reduction as a prerequisite for signing him before the summer transfer window concludes, according to PUNCH Sports Extra. The club remains optimistic about securing the Nigerian striker, who has been a focal point for Mikel Arteta's efforts to bolster Arsenal's attacking options following Atletico Madrid's reluctance to sell Julian Alvarez, who prefers a move to Barcelona over returning to the Premier League.

Sources indicate that Arsenal has engaged in direct discussions about a potential deal for Osimhen, but are unwilling to make a substantial contract offer, leaving the possibility of an agreement contingent on the striker's agreement to lower his salary. Currently, Osimhen commands an annual wage of over €20 million (£17.1m) at Galatasaray, a sum that Arsenal is reportedly unwilling to meet.

The challenge extends to negotiating a transfer fee, with Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek firmly stating that Osimhen is not for sale, a position reinforced by the club's rejection of a €130 million (£111m) offer from Al-Hilal earlier this month. Despite their unsuccessful pursuit of Osimhen, Al-Hilal subsequently targeted Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, but their £45 million bid was also unsuccessful, underscoring the challenges clubs face in persuading top forwards to leave their current teams this summer.

Osimhen has made a strong impact this season, netting twice and providing an assist in Galatasaray's 4-0 victory over Erzurumspor and again in a 2-2 draw with Corum FK. He is anticipated to continue as the leading forward for the Turkish champions while Arsenal await his decision regarding a potential transfer to the Premier League.

Peter, a seasoned sports journalist with PUNCH, specializing in combat sports reporting, human interest stories, and features, covers the story.