Victor Osimhen transfer: Are Arsenal and Man United back in the battle for Nigeria star?

The race to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is heating up again as Arsenal and Manchester United prepare to challenge Bayern Munich for the forward’s signature this summer, Afrik-Foot understands.

Osimhen has been one of the most talked-about strikers in European football over the past few seasons. The Super Eagles forward first became a global star during his time with Napoli before moving to Galatasaray after a difficult spell with the Italian club.

Initially joining the Turkish side on loan, Osimhen impressed so much that Galatasaray decided to sign him permanently last summer for €75 million. Since then, the striker has continued his excellent form. In the current campaign, he has played 26 matches and has been directly involved in 24 goals.

His strong performances have once again attracted the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs. Bayern Munich are reportedly looking at Osimhen as a possible long-term replacement for Harry Kane, who currently leads the line for the German champions.

But Bayern are not alone in the race. According to SportsBoom, Arsenal and Manchester United have reignited their interest in the 27-year-old targetman.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is said to view the Nigerian striker as the final piece needed to complete his attacking puzzle at the Emirates Stadium.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are also looking for a reliable world-class centre-forward to lead their attack. The club’s leadership is now considering a serious move for Osimhen, which would bring them into direct competition with both Arsenal and Bayern Munich.

Victor Osimhen: Price tag and key conditions could decide the deal

Despite the growing interest from Europe’s elite clubs, completing a deal for Osimhen will not be straightforward.

Galatasaray are not eager to sell their star striker. The Turkish club only signed him permanently last year and currently hold a strong position in negotiations because Osimhen’s contract runs until 2029.

However, there are certain conditions that could still lead to a transfer.

First, the club may consider a sale if a very large offer arrives. Reports suggest Galatasaray will only allow Osimhen to leave if a club pays between €120 million and €140 million, a fee that would break the Turkish Super Lig transfer record.

Another factor is the striker’s personal ambition. Osimhen has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, and a chance to play in England could influence his future decision.

Financial factors will also play a major role. Osimhen currently earns between €15 million and €20 million per year including bonuses, meaning any club hoping to sign him must also be ready to offer a huge salary package.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has been one of the strongest voices urging the club to sign the Nigerian forward.

Speaking to talkSPORT in July 2025, Ferdinand said: “I’m like a broken record. If anyone listens to my podcast, I’ve said Osimhen for a while now.

“He’s a centre-forward, he’s experienced, he knows how to score goals at the top level. I’ve seen today that Galatasaray have put a £50m bid in.”I mean, £50m to get a top-class striker, one of the top strikers in the world, is absolute peanuts in today’s market.

“I’ll be disappointed if he goes to Galatasaray for that type of money when Man United are crying out for a No. 9.”

With Bayern Munich already interested and Arsenal determined to strengthen their attack, Manchester United may need to move quickly if they want to secure one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.