Nigerian and informed Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is reportedly eyeing a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal emerging as his preferred destination.
Osimhen has been a standout player for the Partenopei, scoring 17 goals in 31 appearances this season following a prolific 31-goal haul the previous year, earning him a spot in the 2023/24 Serie A Team of The Season.
His impressive performance has attracted attention from several top clubs like; Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Paris Saint-German and Bayern Munich.
Italian journalist Valter De Maggio revealed on Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli that Osimhen’s first choice is a transfer to Arsenal. However, if the North London club does not make a bid, Osimhen may consider other options, including a move to the Middle East.
“Osimhen wants the Premier League; if the offer doesn’t come, then he would consider the Arab one,” Maggio said.
Additionally, Osimhen’s hefty €130m release clause, set by Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, poses a significant financial hurdle, with competition also coming from Chelsea.
“There is no club paying the clause today; Osimhen would like Arsenal; otherwise, he would consider Saudi Arabia,” De Maggio stated.
The situation is complicated by Arsenal’s recent shift towards signing a winger, which could hinder their pursuit of the prolific forward.
With 15 goals and three assists in 24 Serie A appearances this season, the Nigeria international is expected to leave Napoli at the end of the season.
Arsenal will need to act decisively if they want to secure his signature amidst this competitive and high-stakes transfer market.
