Arsenal have reportedly reached out to Napoli star Victor Osimhen as they ramp up efforts to secure a top-class striker this summer.
The Nigerian forward has been in exceptional form since joining Napoli from Lille in 2020, scoring 76 goals across all competitions.
Osimhen’s impressive goal-scoring record has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, as well as Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite Arsenal’s initial contact, they are not currently leading the race for his signature. According to Gianluca Di Marzio via The Mirror, no substantial negotiations have taken place so far.
Paris Saint-Germain, seeking a replacement for Kylian Mbappe following his transfer to Real Madrid, have reportedly made Osimhen a top target.
However, PSG is hesitant to meet his £112 million release clause.
Chelsea, once linked with Osimhen, appear to be stepping back from the pursuit.
Enzo Maresca is reportedly favoring Atletico Madrid’s Samu Omorodion, but complications have arisen following Alvaro Morata’s transfer to AC Milan.
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Arsenal’s interest in Osimhen could gain momentum following recent praise from Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho, who compared Osimhen to Chelsea legend Didier Drogba.
Mourinho stated, “He is of the same level as Drogba, but Didier didn’t dive. If Victor changes, then OK. I’d buy him if I was at a club with a lot of money.”
With Chelsea’s involvement waning and Manchester United securing Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee for £36.5 million, Arsenal may see an opportunity to make a serious bid for Osimhen.
Should Arsenal’s pursuit of Osimhen falter, Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak are potential alternatives, though both players come with significant price tags—Gyokeres has an £84 million release clause, while Isak is valued at £100 million.