Arsenal have been linked with a number of strikers ahead of the summer transfer window, and plenty would be eager to join.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are now one of the most attractive destinations in Europe. Arsenal have the spending power to bring in big names, as shown with last summer’s deal to sign Declan Rice, and can offer the chance to challenge for major trophies.
Arsenal are in the market for a striker this summer, although a huge purchase like Rice may not be prioritised given the strong form of Kai Havertz, with a deal for Viktor Gyokeres now unlikely to happen.
Nevertheless, a long-term target in Victor Osimhen is now reportedly keen on joining Arsenal, and is eager to see whether Arteta still has any interest in signing him.
Victor Osimhen keen on Arsenal move despite interest from Saudi Arabia
Italian journalist Valter De Maggio has now issued a major update on Osimhen’s future, telling KissKissNapoli that he wants to join Arsenal.
“Osimhen? He’s waiting for Arsenal, but if there’s no real proposal, he’d consider Saudi Arabia,” he stated.
Napoli have fallen off dramatically from their historic title win last season, and now sit 10th in Serie A, but Osimhen has still produced upfront, with 17 goals and four assists in 31 games across all competitions.
Arsenal now have a decision to make over Victor Osimhen
Arsenal still want a striker, but Osimhen’s £110m release clause will be off-putting for Edu Gaspar and Arteta.
Osimhen has a poor injury record, missing 20 games since the start of last season, and he would represent a massive risk if the full release clause needs to be paid to sign him.
The ball is firmly in Arsenal’s court, as the player is keen on joining, despite the possibility that he may start behind Havertz when the season begins.
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Arsenal could use his stance to try and negotiate a lower transfer fee if they are keen on him, but the question remains over whether Arteta still desires the Nigerian striker, or whether he has moved onto other targets such as Benjamin Sesko.
There is merit in Arsenal pursuing a younger forward at this time, with a proven hitman like Osimhen no longer necessary to start next season.
Despite his goal record, Osimhen would come with a great deal of risk, and unless his price significantly drops, this does appear to be a deal which may not end up happening this summer.