JUST IN: Arsenal Sporting Director says Arsenal are ready to break the bank for £250k-p/w world class striker with a record transfer fee of over £100M
JUST IN: Arsenal Sporting Director says Arsenal are ready to break the bank for £250k-p/w world class striker with a record transfer fee of over £100M
In the realm of football transfer rumors, the latest buzz surrounding Arsenal and Chelsea involves the potential signing of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen. Renowned journalist Ben Jacobs sheds light on this ongoing saga, suggesting that the Nigerian sensation’s recent contract extension with Napoli hasn’t quashed speculation about his future.
While Osimhen committed to a long-term deal with the Serie A outfit, rumors persist due to a hefty £111 million buyout clause embedded within the agreement. This clause has triggered speculation that the prolific striker could be on the move, with both Arsenal and Chelsea vying for his signature.
Jacobs, in an interview with Givemesport, delves deeper into the intricacies of the situation. He points out that while Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) may have the financial muscle to pursue Osimhen, the player’s preference lies in gracing the pitches of the English Premier League. With PSG potentially freeing up funds following Kylian Mbappe’s departure, the allure of Osimhen to the Parisian club remains palpable. However, it’s the Premier League that seems to beckon the most, opening the door for Arsenal and Chelsea to make their respective pitches.
The financial aspect of the deal also comes under scrutiny, with Osimhen reportedly seeking wages in the ballpark of £250,000 per week. Such demands, while lofty, are within the means of clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and PSG, underlining the widespread interest in the dynamic striker.
Osimhen’s prowess on the field is undeniable, having established himself as one of the standout performers in Europe’s elite leagues. His exploits last season, where he notched an impressive tally of 31 goals for Napoli, catapulted him into the spotlight as Napoli clinched the Scudetto after a lengthy hiatus. Despite grappling with injuries and international commitments this season, Osimhen has maintained a commendable strike rate, netting 10 goals in just 20 appearances.
The impending departure of Mbappe from PSG has heightened the club’s interest in securing Osimhen’s services. However, the allure of Premier League football appears to be the primary driving force behind Osimhen’s decision-making process. While Chelsea may hold sentimental value for the striker, given his admiration for the legendary Didier Drogba, Arsenal emerges as an enticing prospect, particularly given their lofty position in the Premier League standings under the tutelage of Mikel Arteta.
In a season where Arsenal finds themselves in a compelling title race against the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool, the prospect of Osimhen donning the famous red and white jersey could prove irresistible. Contrastingly, Chelsea’s transitional phase adds an element of uncertainty to their pursuit of the Nigerian star.
As the transfer saga unfolds, the footballing world eagerly awaits Osimhen’s next move, with Arsenal and Chelsea positioned as frontrunners in the race for his signature.
