Arsenal and Chelsea have reportedly been boosted in their pursuit of Napoli star Victor Osimhen, who “wants to move to the Premier League” in the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to football journalist Ben Jacobs via GIVEMESPORT, Arsenal and Chelsea have been handed renewed hopes in their pursuit as Osimhen is keen to secure a move to the Premier League.
Gunners contemplating about whether to join Chelsea in race for Osimhen
The striker has had a nightmare AFCON with Nigeria as he only managed just one goal in seven appearances during the Super Eagles’ run to the final, where they lost to hosts’ Ivory Coast. In fact, Osimhen has endured an injury-hit season. But he has still managed eight goals in 18 appearances across Serie A and the Champions League.
Although that is a far cry from his 31-goal haul in 39 games last term as Napoli lifted the Scudetto, the Nigeria international is one of the most in-demand players in world football, with clubs queuing up to prize him away this summer. Chelsea and Arsenal are two Premier League clubs reportedly interested in Osimhen’s signature, with both clubs expected to target a new talisman in the summer.
The Blues, who are the long-term admirers of the Nigerian goal-machine, won 2-1 over Crystal Palace in Premier League action on Monday. But their overall performance this season has been dismal to say the least. Mauricio Pochettino’s side is on course to finish in mid-table for the second successive season.
Although more than €1 billion has been spent on new players over the previous 18 months, further changes are likely this summer, with a No.9 high on their shopping list. As for Arsenal, they have looked like genuine title contenders for the past 18 months now and boast one of the strongest squads in the Premier League. But there are some obvious areas where they could still do with an upgrade, including the striking department.
Of course, Gabriel Jesus brings a unique skill set to the table. But he cannot always be relied upon to finish his chances on a consistent basis in front of goal. And there is a strong argument that a prolific forward like Osimhen is just what Mikel Arteta’s side needs to reach a whole new level.
Who could Osimhen join in the summer transfer window?
Osimhen revealed his intention to leave Napoli at the end of the season, having negotiated a new contract that includes a release clause believed to be worth around £112 million.
Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United are all in the fray for the 25-year-old, while Napoli owner Aurelio De Laurentiis recently suggested Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid could be potential destinations too. Now, Jacobs has provided an update which would come as music to the ears of Osimhen’s Premier League suitors.
PSG could still attempt to beat Arsenal and Chelsea to a summer deal as they view Osimhen a potential Kylian Mbappe replacement. But the French giants are not very optimistic to land his services due to Osimhen’s desire to test his mettle in the Premier League.
