Galatasaray Prepares to Name Victor Osimhen Captain to Ward Off Arsenal and Manchester United Bids
Galatasaray are intensifying their efforts to keep Victor Osimhen out of the grasp of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Arsenal and Manchester United reportedly readying substantial offers for the Nigerian striker.
The 27‑year‑old has justified that faith by firing Galatasaray to another Süper Lig title and playing a pivotal role in the club’s impressive UEFA Champions League campaign.
His performances have again attracted interest from across the continent; Atlético Madrid’s reported €120 million verbal offer was turned down as Galatasaray stand firm on their prized asset.
Despite the growing attention from Europe’s elite, the Istanbul side are determined to keep the former Napoli forward and are said to be preparing a major gesture to underline his importance.
According to reports in Turkey, the club are considering handing Osimhen the captain’s armband ahead of the 2026/27 season, placing him at the heart of Galatasaray’s long‑term sporting project as they aim for another domestic crown and a fresh Champions League run.
Head coach Okan Buruk backs the idea, having repeatedly praised Osimhen’s dressing‑room influence, leadership qualities and relentless work ethic.
The captaincy plan is also linked to the future of current skipper Mauro Icardi; should the Argentine depart during the transfer window, Osimhen is expected to inherit both the armband and the iconic No. 9 shirt.
Galatasaray previously saw Osimhen decline the armband in a match out of respect for senior midfielder İlkay Gündoğan, but now want to make the leadership role permanent as a sign of the value they place on him.
Manchester United are said to be among the leading contenders for Osimhen’s signature; new manager Michael Carrick reportedly views the striker as a priority target after the club’s third‑place Premier League finish.
With Joshua Zirkzee likely to leave Old Trafford, United see Osimhen as the proven goalscorer capable of leading their attack alongside Benjamin Šeško, and could be prepared to spend between £110 million and £130 million to prise him away.
Arsenal are also pushing hard for the Nigerian international; manager Mikel Arteta is said to be interested, and sporting director Andrea Berta has held talks with Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek over a possible deal worth around €130 million, potentially rising to £200 million when wages and bonuses are included.
Chelsea remain admirers of the striker but are taking a more cautious approach than their Premier League rivals.
Osimhen currently earns roughly €15 million per year, a record‑breaking salary that makes him the highest‑paid player in Turkish football history.
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