Superstar forward prefers a move to Arsenal despite recent interest from Chelsea - Reports

Enzo Maresca (left) and Mikel Arteta
Enzo Maresca (left) and Mikel Arteta

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen reportedly prefers a move to Arsenal over their Premier League rivals Chelsea this summer. The Nigeria international has been heavily linked with a move away from the Italian side despite two years left on his contract.

However, he will not be a cheap signing, with £86 million considered the asking price, a huge drop from the Serie A side's £109 million valuation of the player last summer. Corriere dello Sport now claims the Emirates is Osimhen's most favored destination (via The Boot Room).

In recent weeks, French giants Paris Saint-Germain have also been credited with interest in the 25-year-old, with Kylian Mbappe moving to Real Madrid. Meanwhile, the Gunners are looking for an out-and-out No. 9, with Kai Havertz the most likely to start in the position in the 2024-25 campaign.

They could also turn to Gabriel Jesus, who lost his starting spot to Havertz towards the backend of the previous season. Amid these circumstances, the north Londoners would love an imposing striker like Osimhen in their ranks.

Of course, the move would also be tempting for the player, with Arsenal set to be headed in the right direction. They will be expected to challenge for the Premier League this year too after finishing second behind Manchester City two seasons in a row.

Moreover, they offer UEFA Champions League football, something Chelsea cannot. Osimhen has played 133 matches in all competitions for Napoli, bagging 76 goals and 18 assists.


Arsenal striker close to Emirates exit - Reports

Eddie Nketiah
Eddie Nketiah

Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah is reportedly being pursued by Marseille this summer. Sky Sports claims the French side's latest £17 million offer is around the asking price that the Gunners want for the player (via Just Arsenal).

The reports also state that Nketiah has already agreed on personal terms, and it is now down to Arsenal to settle on a transfer fee. He is far down in the pecking order at the Emirates, and his position is further threatened by the north London club's links to No. 9's in the transfer market.

After coming up through Arsenal's academy, he's made 168 senior appearances across competitions, bagging 38 goals and seven assists. It seems highly likely that this deal will get signed as Nketiah searches for regular playing time.

Quick Links

Edited by Samya Majumdar