Newcastle set to battle Chelsea for explosive Nigerian star who rejected Arsenal

Newcastle United are among the clubs monitoring Victor Osimhen’s situation, with Napoli ready to offload the Nigerian striker this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen, 26, remains one of Europe’s most in-demand forwards and is expected to seek a new challenge once his season-long loan at Galatasaray ends.

The Super Eagles star has been in prolific form in Turkey, scoring 17 goals in 22 appearances, and is on course to match his career-best tally of 31 goals from the 2022/23 season.

Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen wanted by Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen wanted by Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle
Galatasaray vs TrabzonsApor Turkish Super League Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO

A couple of Saudi clubs and a host of Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Newcastle, are keeping a close eye on developments.

Mikel Arteta’s title challengers, keen to strengthen their attack following Kai Havertz’s inconsistent displays, have a long-standing interest in Osimhen.

The Gunners previously tried to sign Osimhen in 2016 after he excelled at the FIFA U17 World Cup but were unsuccessful, losing out to Wolfsburg.

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Interestingly, Newcastle’s pursuit of Osimhen could indirectly benefit Arsenal, as it may open the door for the Magpies’ star forward, Alexander Isak, to leave St James’ Park.

The 25-year-old Swedish striker has been in electric form, netting 19 goals in 27 games this season. However, Newcastle’s £150m valuation could be a significant hurdle for Arsenal’s hopes of securing him.

Napoli, who acquired Romelu Lukaku last summer, have no interest in retaining Osimhen and are eager to cash in.

Victor Osimhen SSC Napoli seated in the bench prior to kick-off during soccer game FC Inter vs SSC Napoli. Photo by IMAGO

Last summer, Newcastle were invited to sign the Nigerian but were deterred by his hefty £113m price tag. However, with his release clause now dropping to around £60m, interest from Premier League clubs has reignited.

According to The Chronicle, Newcastle are seriously considering Osimhen as a summer target. While there is no direct suggestion he would be a replacement for Isak, his arrival would provide Eddie Howe with additional firepower if the Swede were to depart.

One potential obstacle for Newcastle could be Osimhen’s wages.

Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey and Victor Osimhen. Photo Credit X

During his Napoli days, the striker earned over £200,000 per week, although that figure has reportedly dropped to around £110,000 at Galatasaray. The Turkish giants are keen to keep the Nigerian star, but financial constraints make a permanent move unlikely.

Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea have all monitored Osimhen closely, with scouts particularly impressed by his performances in the Europa League. With the summer transfer window approaching, the battle for his signature is set to intensify.

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad. From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.

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