Arsenal has reportedly entered the race to sign Victor Osimhen, challenging Chelsea for the acquisition of the Nigerian striker. Osimhen, currently with Napoli, has expressed his desire to seek new horizons after the current season, setting the stage for a high-profile move to the Premier League.
According to sources including TV Play, Arsenal has initiated contact with Osimhen’s representatives, signaling their strong interest in the player. This move places them directly in competition with Chelsea, who have marked Osimhen as a top transfer target.
The pursuit of Osimhen, however, will be far from straightforward. Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has set a firm stance on the financial aspects of any potential deal. Osimhen, who recently extended his contract with Napoli, has a substantial €130 million release clause. De Laurentiis has made it clear that Napoli will not entertain offers below this figure.
Further complicating matters is De Laurentiis’ insistence on receiving the full transfer fee upfront. This demand for immediate payment, rather than staggered installments, poses a significant challenge for both Arsenal and Chelsea. The clubs may need to consider player sales to align with Financial Fair Play regulations while financing this hefty acquisition.