Arsenal have re-entered the race to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, offering more to Napoli than Paris Saint-Germain in the latest twist of this summer’s biggest transfer saga, Soccernet.ng reports.
According to reports from Italy-based Radio Radio, Arsenal have proposed a higher transfer fee for Osimhen compared to PSG, although the salary package on offer is lower. Napoli, keen to expedite negotiations, are hopeful that this offer will help move the deal forward.
The Nigeria international was widely expected to leave Napoli this summer after signing a new contract in December 2023, which included a salary of €10 million per season and a release clause set at €120-130 million. However, no club has met that asking price, prompting Napoli to consider lower offers.
PSG were initially the frontrunners for Osimhen’s signature, but their bid of €80 million was rejected by Napoli. The Ligue 1 champions have been in negotiations for weeks, yet no agreement has been reached.
Arsenal’s entry into the fray comes after they announced the signing of defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna and shifted focus to securing Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
With a need for a marquee centre-forward, the Gunners are now looking to secure Osimhen, whom they have admired for a long time.
Chelsea also remain interested in Osimhen and are attempting to negotiate a part-exchange deal involving Romelu Lukaku.
However, it is reported that the Blues are not ready to meet Napoli's financial demands, putting Arsenal in a potentially stronger position to secure his services.
Napoli are eager to sell Osimhen to free up funds for new signings, including a potential move for Lukaku.
In the middle of the transfer brouhaha, Osimhen has stayed committed to Napoli and has been partaking in the club's preseason programmes ahead of the new Serie A season.
