Newcastle United could be readying a bumper offer to sign Victor Osimhen to fight off the competition for the Napoli ace.
According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Newcastle United are preparing to make a huge offer to Napoli for Victor Osimhen in the summer. While the Italians are in no rush to sell the Nigerian ace, an offer of €100 million or more could draw their attention, as there are other big clubs interested in the talented forward.
Napoli’s decision to spend significantly on a 21-year-old Victor Osimhen right in the middle of the pandemic in 2020 raised plenty of eyebrows. The need for an expensive striker worth €75 million was questioned, and the relatively unknown Osimhen became the talking point among the Italian media.
Many didn’t see the shrewd investment Aurelio De Laurentiis was making, which became clear when Chelsea decided to splash close to £100 million on a 28-year-old Romelu Lukaku last summer. The Napoli supremo is confident similar figures could be procured for Osimhen in the next window.
In reality, Napoli have no interest in selling Osimhem despite the widespread interest from English clubs, although De Laurentiis could entertain offers that match his demands. The Italian club owner will reportedly wait for proposals that exceed €100 million, which will mean the club will make a significant profit on their initial outlay.
Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester United and Newcastle United have maintained an interest in the forward. The Red Devils consider him a potential Cristiano Ronaldo replacement in the summer. However, reports insist Ralf Rangnick’s side may be priced out of the deal due to Napoli’s demands.
Since the January window closed, Arsenal have also shown interest, as Mikel Arteta eyes a top drawer striker in the summer. The Gunners are keeping their options open and have sights on alternative targets such as Benfica’s Darwin Nunez. Similarly, Tottenham were also keen, although the north Londoners could back away if Harry Kane remains at the club.
It leaves Newcastle United with a decision to make in the summer regarding the pursuit of Osimhen. The Magpies are prepared to show their financial muscle right from the start and will be ready to spend big sums to acquire their primary targets.
A striker is certainly needed, and Osimhen fits the profile Eddie Howe wants. Moreover, paying upwards of €100 million on a promising 23-year-old striker may not be considered excessive given the length of service he may be able to provide.
It remains to be seen if Osimhen’s camp views a move to Newcastle or the Premier League as the right step to further his career.
