Arsenal Sporting Director Andrea Berta Scouts Victor Osimhen in Istanbul Derby Victory

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta watches Victor Osimhen score in Galatasaray's win over Fenerbahçe as the Gunners eye a summer transfer move.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 3:53 AM EDT

Strategic Scouting Mission in the Turkish Capital

Arsenal’s recruitment strategy has taken a decisive turn toward the Turkish Süper Lig, with sporting director Andrea Berta personally attending the high-stakes Istanbul derby. Berta, who joined the North London club from Atlético Madrid in March 2025, was observed monitoring several key performers during Galatasaray's dominant 3-0 victory over Fenerbahçe. Reports from Spanish outlet AS indicate that Berta utilized the trip to gather firsthand information from Galatasaray’s management regarding player availability. This scouting mission comes at a critical juncture as Arsenal sits atop the Premier League table, looking to consolidate their status as a perennial European power through elite summer acquisitions.

The Pursuit of a Secondary Elite Strike Force

The primary focus of Berta’s visit was Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, who remains one of the most sought-after forwards in world football. Osimhen, currently on a permanent contract with Galatasaray until 2029 following his move from Napoli in July 2025, delivered a clinical performance by netting the opening goal in the 40th minute. While Arsenal committed €73.5 million to sign Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP last summer, internal evaluations suggest Mikel Arteta is seeking even greater depth and physical dominance in the final third. Osimhen’s tally of 20 goals and multiple assists this season has reinforced his position as a priority target for the Gunners' front line.

Assessing Domestic Talent Beyond the Front Line

Alongside the Nigerian striker, Berta’s shortlist reportedly includes two prominent Turkish internationals: winger Barış Alper Yılmaz and goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır. Yılmaz, who scored a penalty in the 67th minute of the derby, has enjoyed a prolific season with 12 goals and 13 assists across 47 appearances. Arsenal reportedly views him as a versatile addition capable of operating on the left wing or as a dynamic full-back. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Çakır, who kept a clean sheet against Fenerbahçe and has 14 shutouts this season, is being tracked as a high-level option to provide competition or coverage within the Arsenal goalkeeping department.