Arsenal and Chelsea have reportedly withdrawn from the chase for Victor Osimhen, with his huge asking price likely the main reason.
Calcio Napoli reports that the main contenders in the race for Victor Osimhen have withdrawn from the race. Arsenal and Chelsea are no longer part of the running pack for the Nigerian striker, with Napoli’s huge asking price the likely reason for this decision.
Arsenal Chelsea quit Victor Osimhen’s race
Napoli had hoped to fund a major transfer spree, thinking they would get their asking price for Victor Osimhen very early in the window. Antonio Conte was probably promised plenty of funds to strengthen the squad using the funds received for the Nigerian, although things have been contrasting in the market.
Osimhen’s contract includes a release clause of about €130 million, which at one point was seen as something many clubs would want to trigger. PSG was the closest club to signing the striker, although the French champions are not willing to pay more than €70 million for the 25-year-old Serie A winner.
Napoli are likely to accept a bid between €100 million and €130 million, and Premier League giants Arsenal and Chelsea have expressed specific interest. The signing of Samu Omorodion might be the biggest hint that the Blues are unlikely to spend big on Osimhen going forward, while the Gunners are unlikely to pay what’s required to bring the 25-year-old Serie A winner.
Arsenal had an interest in Osimhen, but they are still considering whether to add another centre-forward to their ranks. There are links to Viktor Gyokeres as well, but before making any moves in this particular market, the Gunners will try to offload Eddie Nketiah, with Marseille still considered in the running.
Osimhen’s impasse could hamper the Lukaku deal
Arsenal are clear with their strategy, with Mikel Arteta open to keeping Nketiah if he cannot be sold. The Gunners are unlikely to splash on another striker and have four central options on their hands ahead of the new campaign. Meanwhile, Chelsea would lose the most if Osimhen did not leave Napoli, as the Blues had been in talks over a loan deal with Napoli.
Napoli have also held talks with Chelsea for Romelu Lukaku who is their top target should Osimhen leave. However, they will not sign the Belgian if the Nigerian stays put, as Chelsea will face hardships finding a new suitor for the unwanted striker.
