Victor Osimhen could help Arsenal solve their goalscoring woes – one way or another – eight years after he turned down a move to the Emirates Stadium. The 26-year-old Nigerian is currently one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers and will be on the hunt for a new club when his season-long loan at Galatasaray from Napoli ends in the summer.
He’s netted an impressive 17 times in 22 appearances since his move to Turkey and is on track to equal his career-best tally of 31 goals, achieved during the 2022/23 season. A host of Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, who failed in their bid to sign him last summer, Arsenal, and Newcastle, are reportedly eyeing up a move for him.
The Gunners, keen to bolster their attacking options due to concerns over Kai Havertz’s inconsistent form, had previously attempted to sign Osimhen back in 2016 but were unsuccessful. However, they may look to make amends for that missed opportunity with a renewed approach this year.
Interestingly, a move to Newcastle for Osimhen could also work in Arsenal’s favour, as it might pave the way for long-term Gunners target Alexander Isak to leave St James’ Park. Isak, 25, has been in scintillating form this season, bagging 19 goals in 27 games for the Magpies.
But Newcastle’s hefty £150million valuation of the Swede could prove a stumbling block for Arsenal’s hopes of bringing him to London. Osimhen, on the other hand, is reportedly on the market for £60m, with Napoli eager to part with the striker following their acquisition of Romelu Lukaku last summer.
The Nigerian spurned the Gunners nearly a decade ago, choosing Wolfsburg over them as a teenager because of their strong focus on player development. After dazzling in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he guided Nigeria to victory, Osimhen caught the attention of several top European clubs, including Arsenal, but ultimately picked Wolfsburg.
