Subhi Agrawal
Earlier this summer, Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Arsenal decided not to pursue a deal for the Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, who is now on set for a loan move to Galatasaray.
High Wages Demand
Arsenal was linked with several forwards during the summer transfer window, including Victor Osimhen, who was rumored to leave Napoli despite his contract running until 2026. However, with Osimhen’s high wage demand of around €130 million, the north London club chose not to invest.
According to Sportskeeda, Romano posted a video on Youtube, saying “Let me say that also, at the beginning of the summer transfer window, in June, Arsenal were also offered the possibility to sign Victor Osimhen. That time, for the value of the release clause – so, something between €120 million and €130 million (£101m-£109m).”
“Arsenal immediately decided against that possibility. Then, we saw again in the rumors in the media in Italy, Osimhen and Arsenal again in July and August – that was never a possibility. That’s because they, already in June, decided against investing on a number nine,” he added.
The Gunners Wanted To Sign Benjamin Sesko
Romano went on to say that the Gunners wanted to sign RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as he was available at lower rates. But extended his contract with the German side until 2029.
“So, Arsenal were not going to put big money on that player and especially they were not going to put that amount of money on that player. In case of an opportunity like Benjamin Sesko, they were prepared to do it. €50-€60 million (£42m-£50m) was something OK.”
“But, for €120 million, Arsenal were never prepared to pay that money. It was also about FFP and the salary. The salary of Victor Osimhen for Arsenal was something that they didn’t want to afford. This is why they were never really in the race this summer for Victor Osimhen, but they were offered this possibility.”
Mikel Arteta’s side ultimately decided to sign Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea.
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