As the transfer deadline looms closer this Friday, Arsenal and Chelsea are still heavily linked with a major move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.
Recent reports have confirmed that Osimhen is available for transfer from Napoli, with Antonio Conte having already secured Romelu Lukaku as Osimhen’s replacement. Lukaku is returning to Serie A, leaving Osimhen’s future in the air.
Arsenal was reportedly considering a last-minute bid for Osimhen, a player who could have a substantial impact on the Premier League title race if acquired. However, Chelsea now appears to be the leading contender in the Premier League for the Nigerian superstar’s signature.
Osimhen’s potential move to England could be dramatic and would not come as a major surprise given his impressive track record. Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Osimhen is often described as a ‘fox in the box’ and would fit well into the Premier League, particularly with a team that controls possession.
However, Fabrizio Romano provided a decisive update late Tuesday evening, indicating that Arsenal may have withdrawn from the race. According to Romano, the only clubs currently in negotiations for Osimhen are Chelsea and Al-Ahli.
Paris Saint-Germain, who had previously shown interest, are now reportedly out of contention. Romano noted: “Chelsea and Al-Ahli are the only clubs actively discussing a deal for Victor Osimhen. PSG are no longer involved in negotiations. Chelsea remains the primary option for Osimhen, who is not considering a reduction in his salary. Al-Ahli is prepared to move forward if the Chelsea deal falls through.”
“Victor doesn’t plan to reduce his salary. Al Ahli are ready if Chelsea deal doesn’t happen.”
🚨🔵 Chelsea and Al Ahli are still the only clubs in talks for Victor Osimhen.
PSG NOT working on it. ❌
Chelsea are talking to Osimhen’s camp as main option on four-players list.
Victor doesn’t plan to reduce his salary.
Al Ahli are ready if Chelsea deal doesn’t happen. pic.twitter.com/L1NgQrxue5
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 27, 2024
Meanwhile, Chelsea is also competing with Arsenal for Brentford’s Ivan Toney. Brentford may need to consider a cut-price deal for Toney if they fail to sell him before the deadline, as he has been excluded from their opening league matches.
Amid the flurry of activity before the transfer deadline, Arsenal is also rumored to be eyeing a surprise move for Darwin Núñez, making it a crucial time to watch for any last-minute deals before Friday’s deadline.
