Arsenal have shown interest in acquiring Victor Osimhen this summer. The club is in the market for a new forward, but it remains uncertain if they will pursue a traditional striker or a versatile winger.
Currently, Arsenal boasts Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka on the wings. Despite Kai Havertz’s decent performance up front, he is not seen as a reliable source of 20-plus goals per season.
This situation has led many fans to hope for the signing of a new striker, with Osimhen being a favored option. Recently, his manager has indicated the possibility of a transfer during this window.
Antonio Conte, who has been appointed as Napoli’s new manager after his stint with Tottenham, made notable remarks about Osimhen following Arsenal’s interest.
Conte had specific conditions before accepting the Napoli job, one of which was to retain key players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and Stanislav Lobotko. However, Osimhen was not explicitly included in this list.
Osimhen, recognized as one of the world’s top strikers, is expected to leave Napoli this summer. Conte, when asked about the Nigerian forward, commended his abilities but acknowledged that Napoli has an existing agreement with Osimhen regarding a potential move.
In a press conference, as reported by the Metro, Conte stated, “As far as Osimhen is concerned, just as I knew very well about the situation of Kvara, Di Lorenzo, Anguissa, Lobotka, on which I have placed an absolute veto. Having said that, I know what the situation is regarding Osimhen.
I know that there are agreements, that it is a situation different from all the others. I can only assist. He is a player of the highest level, exceptional, but I cannot enter into any discussion because it is part of previous agreements which have been clearly stated to me.”
Osimhen’s valuation is significant. When he renewed his contract with Napoli in December 2023, a £113 million release clause was included. This high price is beyond what Arsenal is willing to pay.
However, recent reports suggest that Napoli has reduced his price to £85 million, making him more attainable. Nonetheless, no club has made a formal offer yet.
Arsenal is certainly interested in Osimhen, but they reportedly value him at £63 million. Whether Napoli will agree to sell him at this lower price remains uncertain.
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