Napoli has told Arsenal they’re ready to sell Victor Osimhen, but with one condition. Mikel Arteta isn’t happy with it, but the Sporting Director doesn’t want to miss the chance to sign the star striker.
Napoli Open to Selling Victor Osimhen to Arsenal – But There’s a Catch That Might Not Please Mikel Arteta
Arsenal might have a golden opportunity to sign one of the most formidable strikers in world football, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, but it won’t come cheap or easy. Reports suggest that Napoli is open to negotiating a deal for Osimhen, but there’s a significant condition attached that could be a sticking point for Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta.
After choosing not to invest in a dedicated goalscorer during the last summer transfer window, Arsenal could be in the market for a top-tier striker either this January or next summer. Although they signed Kai Havertz as an additional forward option, Arteta largely decided to rely on Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus for this season. However, to compete at the highest level and achieve their aspirations, Arsenal will likely need a more prolific striker.
Victor Osimhen, Napoli’s star forward, has emerged as a potential target. The Nigerian striker is reportedly considering his future at the Italian club following a controversial incident where he was mocked on Napoli’s official TikTok account. This incident has soured his relationship with the club, and while he has continued to play, it’s clear that tensions remain.
According to sources like Calciomercato, Napoli is preparing to sell Osimhen next summer. Last year, they demanded over £100 million for the player, and it’s expected that his valuation has not decreased. The catch? Napoli is reportedly willing to let Osimhen go to Arsenal only if Gabriel Jesus is included in the deal, along with a substantial transfer fee. Given that Arsenal paid £50 million for Jesus, and Osimhen’s market value exceeds £100 million, this deal would be a hefty investment.
Gabriel Jesus has been crucial to Arsenal’s strategies since his arrival at the Emirates Stadium. His ability to link play and his versatility make him a key player for Arteta, who might be hesitant to part with such an influential figure in his squad. Trading Jesus for Osimhen would certainly bolster Arsenal’s attacking prowess, but it would also mean losing a player who has become central to their gameplay.
In addition to Osimhen, Arsenal is also linked with Brentford’s Ivan Toney. The striker, who is expected to be available for transfer in January following the end of his gambling suspension, has expressed interest in leaving Brentford. This alternative might present a less complicated option for Arsenal if the negotiations for Osimhen prove too challenging.
As the January transfer window approaches, Arsenal will need to weigh their options carefully. The potential acquisition of Victor Osimhen could significantly enhance their attacking threat, but meeting Napoli’s demands will require serious consideration and possibly difficult sacrifices.