{
  "id": 2681185,
  "title": "Arsenal want Osimhen to accept pay-cut for transfer",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/23/arsenal-want-osimhen-to-accept-pay-cut-for-transfer",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-23T00:00:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch Nigeria",
    "slug": "punch-nigeria",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/arsenal-want-osimhen-to-accept-pay-cut-for-transfer/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "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.",
  "summary": "Arsenal are pushing for Victor Osimhen to accept a pay-cut to facilitate his transfer to the Emirates. Will the Nigerian striker compromise on his salary? Read More: https://punchng.com/arsenal-want-osimhen-to-accept-pay-cut-for-transfer/",
  "key_points": [
    "Arsenal seeks Victor Osimhen to accept pay-cut for transfer.",
    "Osimhen currently earns over €20 million annually at Galatasaray.",
    "Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek states Osimhen is not for sale."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Arsenal's insistence on a pay cut for Victor Osimhen indicates the club is prioritizing affordability over meeting the striker's current salary demands, potentially setting a cautious tone for their transfer dealings.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}