Arsenal have been once again interested in Victor Osimhen, Napoli’s top scorer. Following some silence, the Gunners are back in the fight for the Nigerian striker, trying to strengthen their attack before the next season. The English media has speculated about a possible transfer between Chelsea and Napoli including Romelu Lukaku and Osimhen. But Osimhen’s representative discounted the speculations, claiming that such negotiations had no foundation.
Additionally interested in Osimhen is Paris Saint-Germain. On this front, meanwhile, Corriere dello Sport claims the French team is idle right now. PSG does not now want to pay Napoli’s exorbitant asking price. They have not taken any specific action yet even though they have an agreement with Osimhen’s representative.
£100m Star Will Choose Arsenal Over Chelsea
Arsenal, on the other hand, apparently entered the competition and made their intentions rather clear. Though interested, Chelsea looks to be less preferred by Osimhen. Any contract depends on the striker’s agreement, hence the Blues cannot move without his assent. This might be connected to Chelsea’s absence from the Champions League, so they appeal less to a player of Osimhen’s level.
Arsenal appeals more to Osimhen because they qualify for the Champions League. Strong position of the Gunners allows them to entice the striker, eager to perform at the top level. Osimhen would presumably want to go to Arsenal rather than Chelsea.
Arsenal’s fresh quest of Osimhen reveals their will to challenge themselves at the elite. Osimhen’s presence would surely improve their team and provide offensive firepower.
Osimhen’s decision to Arsenal makes sense, in my view, for both sides. To fight for domestic championships and play in the Champions League, Arsenal need a prolific striker. On the other side, Osimhen would gain by participating in a league with clubs appreciating his skills in competition. Arsenal might benefit from this possible deal in both directions—backward to the elite levels of European football and forwardward.
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Arsenal is increasing the summertime transfer activity. They began by permanentizing David Raya’s loan move for £27 million. They also brought Ajax’s goal-keeper Tommy Setford. Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £42 million was their first major acquisition. He has a five-year deal agreed upon.
Not stopping there are the Gunners. Having agreed on personal terms, they are in advanced negotiations with Mikel Merino of Real Sociedad. As Merino, a Euro 2024 champion, starts his last year of contract, Arsenal will spend £25 million for him. To increase their striker options, they are also aiming after Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP.
Linked with Arsenal earlier this year, Gyokeres saw rumours dwindle owing to a knee issue. He has, however, recovered, which calls Arsenal’s sports director Edu to restart talks. Reports indicate Arsenal has a basic understanding with Gyokeres. The last stage is negotiating with Sporting. Gyokeres scored 43 goals in 50 games during his outstanding Portuguese debut season. Originally estimated between £80 and 100 million, Sporting’s asking price has reduced to £68 million. Arsenal finds the transaction more possible with this cut-back.
The double acquisition of Gyokeres and Merino for a total £93 million would excite Arsenal supporters. Gyokeres has English football experience with Coventry City, Brighton, and Swansea City albeit not participated in the Premier League. This ought to enable him to settle fast at Arsenal.
