Arsenal Back in the Hunt for Napoli Star Victor Osimhen with Massive €100M Bid Amid PSG and Chelsea Transfer Battle
Arsenal have reignited their pursuit of Napoli’s star striker Victor Osimhen, according to reports from Italy, signaling their intent to compete with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Chelsea in the high-stakes transfer battle. The Gunners are reportedly ready to table an offer close to €100 million plus bonuses, as they aim to secure the services of one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards.
Osimhen’s Contract and Release Clause
Victor Osimhen, who played a pivotal role in Napoli’s 2023 Serie A title win by becoming the league’s Capocannoniere with 26 goals in 32 games, has been linked with a move away from the Italian giants ever since he signed a lucrative new contract in December 2023. This contract included a €130 million release clause, which so far has kept potential suitors at bay.
While PSG came closest to meeting Napoli’s asking price, Chelsea also showed interest, considering Osimhen as part of their negotiations involving Romelu Lukaku. However, neither club has yet to match the full release clause, leaving Napoli in a holding pattern as they wait for a firm offer to materialize before making further investments in new signings.
Arsenal’s Renewed Interest
According to Corriere dello Sport, Arsenal are now prepared to return to the negotiating table with a substantial bid nearing €100 million plus bonuses. The Premier League club sees Osimhen as a perfect fit for their attacking needs, and with the Gunners competing in the Champions League next season, they present an attractive option for the 25-year-old striker.
Despite his injury-plagued 2023-24 season, where he managed 15 goals in 25 Serie A appearances and two goals in six Champions League matches, Osimhen remains a top target for many elite clubs. His ability to perform at the highest level is undisputed, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their attacking options.
PSG, Chelsea, and Arsenal: The Battle Continues
The transfer saga surrounding Osimhen has taken several twists and turns, with reports suggesting that the striker is leaning towards a move to PSG. The French champions are keen on securing Osimhen’s signature, but financial constraints and the need to offload players like Kolo Muani or Ramos have delayed their progress.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are still in the race but face an uphill battle given Osimhen’s reported reluctance to join a club that is not competing in the Champions League. Arsenal’s re-entry into the fray could shake things up, especially if they can come close to Napoli’s asking price.
The Dream Move Dilemma
While Arsenal ticks many boxes for Osimhen, reports indicate that the striker is willing to wait up to two weeks for what he considers his “dream move” to PSG. The French giants, who have dominated Ligue 1 in recent years, represent a chance for Osimhen to further his career at a club with significant European ambitions. However, the delay in PSG’s approach due to financial constraints could open the door for Arsenal to swoop in and finalize a deal.
What’s Next?
As the transfer window heats up, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining where Victor Osimhen will ply his trade next season. Arsenal’s willingness to spend big on the Nigerian international shows their ambition, but whether it will be enough to lure him away from his dream move to PSG remains to be seen. Chelsea, though still interested, may need to step up their efforts if they hope to compete with the Gunners and the Parisians.
