Arsenal‘s reported interest in signing Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli has stirred discussions about his transfer situation and release clause. Here’s what you need to know.
Osimhen joined Turkish giants Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in September 2024 after transfer talks with Al-Ahli, PSG, and Chelsea fell through. Notably, the loan agreement does not include an option to buy, meaning the 26-year-old is expected to return to Napoli at the end of the 2024/25 season. However, his long-term future at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona appears uncertain.
Although Osimhen’s contract with Napoli runs until June 2026, the Italian club reportedly extended it to 2027 before loaning him to Galatasaray.
Read Also: Osimhen adds Arsenal, Chelsea transfer clause in Galatasaray loan deal
According to RAI Sport, the release clause for a permanent transfer this summer is set at €75 million. However, the fee for a January transfer would rise to €90 million due to Galatasaray’s entitlement to a portion of the deal if Osimhen leaves mid-season. Despite Arsenal’s interest, Galatasaray’s coach and directors have insisted that the striker will remain with the Turkish side until the season’s conclusion.
Earlier this month, La Repubblica reported that Osimhen rejected an opportunity to join Manchester United during the winter transfer window. Meanwhile, transfer expert Pete O’Rourke recently claimed that Arsenal are exploring a move for the Nigerian international as they aim to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes.
Currently, Osimhen earns €10 million per season at Napoli, though Galatasaray is covering only €6 million of his wages during the loan spell.
Osimhen has been in exceptional form for Galatasaray, scoring 14 goals and registering six assists in 18 appearances across all competitions. His performances have made him a sought-after target, particularly for Arsenal, who are grappling with injuries to key players such as Gabriel Jesus, Nathan Nwaneri, and Bukayo Saka.
The Gunners, sitting second in the Premier League table with 44 points—six behind leaders Liverpool have struggled with attacking depth.
Osimhen’s prowess could provide the firepower Mikel Arteta’s side needs to boost their Premier League title ambitions.
With Arsenal’s need for reinforcements and Osimhen’s availability under specific conditions, the January transfer window remains a pivotal period for potential negotiations.
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