Chelsea’s failed bid boosts Arsenal’s chances to sign Nigerian striker

Chelsea’s failed attempt to secure the signature of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli has boosted Arsenal’s chances to sign him, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 25-year-old attacker has been heavily linked with a move away from the Diego Maradona Stadium this summer, despite recently penning a new deal with Napoli.

Napoli had a disappointing 2023-24 season, involving three different coaches and no European participation next season following a 10th-place finish.

This situation gives Osimhen the green light to exit the club and pursue his ambition to play in the English Premier League, with Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United looking to bolster their squads.

Chelsea’s Failed Move

The Super Eagles talisman has excelled for Napoli over the past two seasons with his goal-scoring skills and is expected to leave the Italian club before the next term begins.

The London-based club attempted to secure a deal by offering a swap involving Romelu Lukaku, aiming to reunite the Belgian with Antonio Conte.

However, according to Italy-based journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli rejected the proposal, insisting that Osimhen’s full release clause must be paid.

Arsenal Gets Boost

Osimhen remains one of the most wanted strikers in European football, and Arsenal is among the Premier League clubs interested in signing him.

Reports indicate that the Nigerian attacker only wants to play in the Premier League next, rejecting a return to Ligue 1 despite interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

Chelsea’s failed move boosts Arsenal’s opportunity to sign the striker, aiming to win the Premier League trophy next season after previous attempts.

Di Marzio has also reported that the North London club is aiming to sign a striker this summer, with Osimhen and Benjamin Sesko on the priority list.