The Victor Osimhen transfer saga is heating up, and Arsenal are said to be in the mix.
The Gunners have signed Riccardo Calafiori already this summer, while David Raya’s loan has been turned into a permanent deal as well. Arsenal are also on the verge of signing Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
It has been a good window for the Premier League runners-up, but it looks like Arsenal are now prepared to go big to sign one of the best strikers in the world – Osimhen.
However, there is one big obstacle that the Gunners need to cross to get this deal over the line.
Arsenal face key issue in pursuit of Victor Osimhen
Osimhen is up there with the best number nines in world football.
The Nigerian is fast, strong, good in the air, and clinical in front of goal. His numbers over the years show that he is really prolific as well when he’s fit.
Everyone expected Osimhen to leave Napoli for a bigger club this summer, but until now, there hasn’t been any movement.
That’s because his £113 million release clause (Standard) has put potential suitors off.
However, if Radio Radio’s Ilario Di Giovambattista is to be believed, Arsenal are now ready to satisfy Napoli’s demands to sign Osimhen.
However, there is one big problem – PSG.
The journalist has revealed that Osimhen has agreed terms with the French giants, who have offered him more money than Arsenal if he agrees to join them.
But, Arsenal’s offer to Napoli is higher than what PSG are prepared to pay.
Giovambattista said on X: “The Arsenal falls on Osimhen. The English, as anticipated in recent days on RadioRadioLoSport, want the Nigerian striker and satisfy the financial requests of SSC Napoli.
“However, Osimhen has an agreement with PSG, who guarantee him a salary significantly higher than that of Arsenal.
“So, the English offer more to Napoli, the French more to the player. Who will come out on top?”
The near-perfect window for Arsenal
Arsenal had four key issues going into the summer transfer window.
The Gunners needed help at left-back, in the left side of central midfield, on the right wing to provide cover for Bukayo Saka and up front.
Calafiori’s arrival solves the left-back issue, while Merino is a great fit in the middle of the park. That leaves two other issues to be resolved – Osimhen would smash one of them out of the park.
The Nigerian would almost instantly make Arsenal the favourites to win the Premier League title in the 2024/25 season if he does move to the Emirates.
Arsenal may then not have the budget to sign a new right-winger, but three out of four key issues solved in one window should be viewed positively. It would be a near-perfect summer for them.
However, it remains to be seen if Arsenal can beat PSG to Osimhen’s signature.
