Arsenal have initiated negotiations with Victor Osimhen, aiming to secure the Nigerian forward at a reduced fee.
The Gunners are making a strategic move to bring the Napoli superstar to the Emirates Stadium this summer, a transfer that promises to send shockwaves through the football world.
Victor Osimhen has been on the radar of many top European clubs for several seasons. Now, Arsenal has emerged as a primary contender for his signature.
Mikel Arteta, the Gunners’ manager, is keen on strengthening his attacking options, seeking additional support for Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. This pursuit underscores Arsenal’s ambitions to fortify their frontline and boost their offensive prowess.
Previously, Arsenal had their sights set on Slovenian sensation Benjamin Sesko. However, their interest waned after Sesko committed his future to RB Leipzig with a new contract, according to reports from The Athletic.
This shift in focus has led Arsenal to intensify their efforts to acquire Osimhen. Italian journalist Ciro Venerato, as reported by Area Napoli, revealed that Arsenal is exploring ways to negotiate a reduced price for the Napoli star.
Venerato explained, “Arsenal will now try with the Nigerian but not by paying the onerous amount of the clause, but a lower sum. Napoli will have to evaluate the pros and cons.”
Osimhen’s release clause is approximately £113 million, a hefty sum that Napoli demanded in March when Chelsea showed interest.
According to FourFourTwo, it is evident that Napoli seeks a high transfer fee for Osimhen, partly because they owe a percentage of any sale to his former club, Lille.
However, this strategy may have backfired as Napoli’s club president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, confirmed that the star striker will depart this summer.
While Arsenal is unwilling to meet the full release clause for the 25-year-old, other Premier League clubs might find themselves priced out of the race due to Napoli’s steep demands.
This development positions Arsenal as a serious contender in the transfer market, showcasing their intent to bolster their squad with top-tier talent.
The acquisition of Osimhen could be a game-changer for the Gunners, potentially elevating their status in both domestic and European competitions. As negotiations unfold, the football world will be watching closely to see if Arsenal can pull off this high-stakes transfer.
