Arsenal ready €100m Osimhen bid

Victor Osimhen looks set for a potential move to Arsenal, with reports from Italian journalist Ciro Venerato indicating that the Premier League club is preparing a €100 million bid for the Nigerian striker. This offer is €30 million short of the release clause recently set by Napoli in his contract.

Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has stated that bids below the release clause will not be entertained. Arsenal’s proposed bid of €100m (£85m) aims to negotiate a deal below the clause, which would still be close to Arsenal’s transfer record of £105 million for Declan Rice last summer. Venerato commented, “Arsenal will now try with the Nigerian [who dreams of the Premier League], but not by paying the onerous amount of the clause, but a lower sum. Napoli will have to evaluate the pros and cons.”

Arsenal initially targeted RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, who has committed to staying at Leipzig for another year, prompting Arsenal to seek other options. Their focus also includes Girona’s Artem Dovbyk, the top scorer in La Liga last season with 24 goals. However, there are indications of a high-profile signing on the horizon, with Osimhen as the prime candidate.

Osimhen, who has expressed his desire for a Premier League challenge, scored 26 league goals in the 2022-23 season, leading Napoli to their first Serie A title since 1990. His ambition and proven track record make him a valuable prospect for Arsenal.

The Gunners are not alone in their pursuit; Chelsea and PSG have also shown interest, particularly PSG as they seek a replacement for Kylian Mbappe, who has joined Real Madrid.

At 25, Osimhen is entering his prime and has demonstrated his ability to drive a team to success. His potential arrival could be the key for Arsenal to challenge Manchester City and end their two-decade wait for a Premier League title.

However, this move carries significant risks. The financial investment is substantial, and if Osimhen fails to adapt to the Premier League or if the deal falls through, Arsenal could face challenges. With competition from clubs like Chelsea and PSG, Arsenal must act swiftly and decisively.