Arsenal FC ready €100m Osimhen bid
Victor Osimhenwill most likely end up at Arsenal, with Italian journalist Ciro Venerato reporting that the Premier League giants are ready to make a €100 million bid for the Nigerian striker, which is €30 million short of the release clause set by Napoli in his recent contract.
Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has firmly stated that any bids for Victor Osimhen must meet his release clause, which would exceed Arsenal’s current transfer record of £105 million, set when they signed Declan Rice last summer. However, Arsenal hopes to negotiate a more modest fee, aiming for around €100 million or £85 million. Venerato explained, “[Arsenal] will now try with the Nigerian [who dreams of the Premier League], but not by paying the onerous amount of the clause, but a lower sum. Napoli will have to evaluate the pros and cons.”
Initially targeting RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, Arsenal’s plans shifted when Sesko committed to Leipzig for another year. This prompted the club to explore alternative options to secure the firepower needed to challenge Manchester City and end their two-decade wait for a Premier League title.
Following Sesko’s decision, Arsenal has also shown interest in Girona’s Artem Dovbyk, the top scorer in La Liga last season with 24 goals. However, speculation from Italy suggests a more high-profile target: Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen, who has openly expressed his desire for a new challenge and dreams of playing in the Premier League, scored 26 league goals in the 2022–23 season, leading Napoli to their first Serie A title since 1990. This impressive track record makes him an enticing prospect for Arsenal.
The Gunners are not alone in their pursuit; Chelsea and PSG have also shown interest, particularly PSG, which needs to replace Kylian Mbappe, who has joined Real Madrid.
At 25, Osimhen is entering his prime and has proven his ability to lead a team to glory. His addition could be the catalyst Arsenal needs to topple Manchester City and bring the Premier League trophy back to North London.
However, the financial stakes are high, and the deal carries significant risk. If the transfer falls through or if Osimhen struggles to adapt to the Premier League, Arsenal could find themselves in a precarious position. Additionally, with clubs like Chelsea and PSG in the mix, Arsenal must act swiftly and decisively.
