BREAKING NEWS: Fabrizio Romano reports that Arsenal has made a massive €85m bid for a Serie A star who is a top target for Arteta. Arteta praised the player, noting his standout personality and presence, qualities he believes are crucial for Premier League strikers. Arsenal is once again pursuing Victor Osimhen, as Napoli has reduced their asking price, making a move to England this summer a possibility.

Arsenal has reportedly renewed their pursuit of Napoli’s star forward, Victor Osimhen, following a reduction in the Italian club’s asking price. Despite a €130 million (£110.7 million) release clause in Osimhen’s contract, no club has activated it.

However, Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport suggests that Napoli may now be open to offers around €100 million (£85.2 million). The 25-year-old Nigerian striker, who scored 17 goals and provided 4 assists in 32 appearances last season, has drawn interest from several top clubs, including Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, during this transfer window.

Arsenal’s renewed interest in Osimhen is likely tied to their plans for a forward shake-up, potentially positioning him as a replacement for Eddie Nketiah. Talks are reportedly underway for Nketiah’s sale, with Nottingham Forest willing to pay between £30-35 million for the English striker.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Osimhen aligns with their need for a more prolific goal scorer to compete at the top level, particularly to challenge Manchester City’s dominance. In their opening match of the 2024-25 Premier League season, Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, with Kai Havertz playing upfront. However, it is becoming evident that they require a striker with greater experience and consistent scoring ability.

Osimhen, whose contract with Napoli expires in two years, has made it clear that he is not interested in a loan move, making a permanent transfer more likely. His impressive track record, including winning the Serie A Golden Boot with 26 goals in 32 matches during Napoli’s title-winning 2022-23 season, makes him a fitting candidate for Arsenal’s attacking lineup.

His style of play, characterized by power, determination, and clinical finishing, has drawn comparisons to Chelsea legend Didier Drogba. This comparison was highlighted by former Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel on the Obi One podcast, where he praised Osimhen’s confidence and presence, likening him to Drogba.

Drogba, who was a constant thorn in Arsenal’s side during his Premier League career, scoring 13 goals and providing 3 assists in 15 matches against them, is a benchmark of the kind of striker Arsenal needs.

If Arsenal decides to make a late move in the transfer window, Osimhen could be the striker to deliver similar results and help the team contend for top honors.