Galatasaray president vows to block Arsenal's move for Victor Osimhen

Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek has issued a firm rejection of Arsenal’s pursuit of Victor Osimhen, insisting the Turkish club will not sanction a sale regardless of the fee on offer.

Ozbek reportedly told his inner circle: “I will not say ‘yes’ to any transaction that will harm Galatasaray or not benefit Galatasaray. No matter how much the price is, I am not selling Osimhen.” The statement echoes a similar stance Ozbek previously took over winger Baris Alper Yilmaz, and signals that Galatasaray have no intention of losing their marquee striker mid-season.

Despite the president’s declaration, Turkish outlet Sozcu reports that Arsenal remain determined to push through a deal. Osimhen himself has played down the speculation, saying: “There are always rumours during the transfer windows. I’ll focus on my job. We’ll see and think about what comes next then.”

Arsenal’s need for a striker has been sharpened by the potential departures of Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus before the window closes on September 1. The Gunners have already brought in Bruno Guimaraes, Christos Tzolis, and Illan Meslier this summer, while Piero Hincapie’s loan has been made permanent.

Manager Mikel Arteta also appears to have given a strong indication that Ethan Nwaneri is set to leave the club. The attacking midfielder was left out of the squad for Sunday’s Community Shield final against Manchester City despite featuring in pre-season, a selection that points strongly toward an imminent exit.

Arteta addressed Nwaneri’s situation ahead of the match, saying: “I want him to be at the club but something is in the medium-long term what is best for the player as well. Ethan needs to play football and if he stays here it’s because we can guarantee that he can have those minutes.” Galatasaray are among the clubs reported to be interested in the 19-year-old.

On the defensive front, Arsenal have identified Jarell Quansah and Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa as targets as they look to cover for the injured William Saliba. At least one bid for Konsa has already been rejected by Villa.