Arsenal are one of several clubs interested in signing Victor Osimhen from Napoli this summer and have made an approach for the Nigerian striker, but a journalist has revealed why a deal could be difficult.
Arsenal had looked on course to finish inside the top four and qualify for the Champions League. But their season has derailed in recent weeks, culminating in Saturday’s loss to Southampton.
The team’s three consecutive losses against mid-table opponents have left them in a difficult position. To make matters worse, they are due to face Chelsea, Manchester United and West Ham in their next matches.
Arsenal has scored just one goal in their last three games, a worrying statistic that should be addressed immediately if they hope to remain competitive this season.
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The Gunners could lose both Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah for free by June 30. Both players have struggled for goals this season after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang move to Barcelona in January.
As a result, Mikel Arteta’s side has been linked with a lot of strikers recently with the latest been Napoli forward, Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe and has been linked with a number of clubs.
Newcastle United, Manchester United and Arsenal have all been rumoured to be interested in signing the Nigeria international.
But it’s Arsenal who are said to be leading the race to sign Osihmen according to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport. The forward’s estimated value is €100m (£83m).
Although no official bid has been made, journalist Emanuele Cammaroto told Area Napoli that Arsenal has reached out to the player’s representatives.
The club is interested in making Osimhen an offer to play in England. However, Napoli wants to retain the player and is interested in having him play for the team again next season.
The Italian club are currently in third place in the standings, and they seem certain to qualify for a spot in next year’s Champions League.
“The big names of the Premier League are following him and are beginning to come forward,” said Cammaroto (via Sport Witness).
“But Napoli’s idea is to keep the Nigerian centre forward at least for another season unless there are significant proposals.
“At the moment, Arsenal has come forward and has sounded out the player’s entourage.
“Osimhen has registered the interest of the Gunners, and it seems that he has been flattered by the proposal. But he doesn’t consider Arsenal a first choice for his career.
“The former Lille bomber wants to play in the Champions League with Napoli, and then he will choose his future.” He added.
Napoli is likely to play in the Champions League competition next year, whereas Arsenal’s place in that tournament is uncertain at the moment.
It will take a masterclass from Arsenal’s technical director to bring the striker to north London this summer.