Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian international, encountered tensions with his Serie A club ahead of the 2024/25 season, as he sought to leave Napoli. Meanwhile, manager Antonio Conte had different plans, opting for Romelu Lukaku as his leading striker after the Belgian’s €30 million move from Chelsea to Napoli.
Facing the prospect of spending the season on the bench, the 25-year-old chose to join Galatasaray on loan, a decision that wasn’t his ideal outcome.
Throughout the summer transfer window, Osimhen was linked with several prominent clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Arsenal. It remains uncertain whether any of these top European teams will pursue the Napoli loanee in 2025.
Recognized as one of the world’s top strikers, Osimhen has the potential to elevate any team’s performance. During his time at Napoli, he scored 76 goals and provided 18 assists in 133 appearances, becoming a hero in Naples after helping secure the Serie A title in 2023.
While Osimhen may aspire to join one of Europe’s elite teams in January, Arsenal and Chelsea are not options for him at this time.
Arsenal Won’t Pursue Victor Osimhen in January
Mikel Arteta remains open to bolstering his squad with a new striker next summer, as reported by Fabrizio Romano on CaughtOffside last week, indicating that Arsenal might consider a move for him.
However, in January, the Gunners are unlikely to bring in a new forward. Football Insider has reported that the North London club will not trigger Osimhen’s £68 million release clause in his Napoli contract.
Although Arsenal has long admired the Nigerian forward, any potential signing will have to be deferred until the summer.
Additionally, the report notes that Osimhen’s season-long loan with Galatasaray includes a break clause, permitting him to join a third club in January.
Chelsea, too, will not pursue the Nigerian star, as they are currently grappling with concerns related to Financial Fair Play and Profit and Sustainability Rules.
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