Arsenal Preparing to Open Talks with 26-Year-Old Star in Big Transfer Blow for Manchester United: Reports

Arsenal are reportedly intensifying their pursuit of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen as they prepare to open talks with his representatives over a potential summer transfer. The Gunners are keen on securing a world-class forward and view Osimhen as a key target, with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain also monitoring the situation.

According to Caught Offside, Napoli are willing to sell Osimhen at the end of the season, and several European heavyweights are vying for his signature. The report suggests that Arsenal want to move quickly to gain an advantage in negotiations, particularly with Manchester United also keen on reinforcing their attack with the prolific striker.

Osimhen has been one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe following his remarkable performances for Napoli in recent seasons. The Nigerian international played a pivotal role in leading Napoli to the Serie A title last year, and despite injury setbacks, he has continued to deliver when fit. His lethal finishing, speed, and ability to play as a lone striker make him an attractive option for top clubs.

Manchester United, who have struggled with consistency in their attack, see Osimhen as an ideal addition to their squad. The Red Devils signed Rasmus Højlund last summer, but the young Danish forward has lacked adequate support, leading the club to consider bringing in another striker. However, Arsenal’s proactive approach could give them the upper hand in this transfer battle.

The Gunners are in dire need of a prolific goal scorer to complement their attacking options. While Gabriel Jesus has provided versatility and work rate, his goal return has not been consistent enough for a team with title aspirations. Mikel Arteta’s side has been heavily linked with several strikers, including Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko, but Osimhen’s profile makes him a standout candidate.

Last summer, both Arsenal and Manchester United attempted to negotiate with Napoli for Osimhen’s transfer. However, the Italian club’s steep asking price reportedly exceeded €120 million, which deterred potential suitors. The striker ultimately remained in Serie A, but with Napoli now open to a sale, Arsenal see this as an opportunity to secure a marquee signing.

PSG and Chelsea are also in the mix, with the French giants seeking a replacement for Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to join Real Madrid at the end of the season. Chelsea, on the other hand, have struggled with attacking efficiency and are eager to add a proven goal scorer to their ranks. The London club had considered Osimhen last year but failed to agree on terms with Napoli.

Arsenal’s potential signing of Osimhen would be a significant statement of intent, especially considering the club’s ambitions to challenge Manchester City and Liverpool for the Premier League title. Arteta’s squad has shown immense progress over the past two seasons, but the lack of a consistent goal scorer has often been cited as their biggest weakness.

Despite Arsenal’s strong interest, former England striker Gary Lineker has urged the club to look elsewhere instead of spending over £100 million on Osimhen. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Lineker suggested that Arsenal should consider a younger, less expensive option such as Liam Delap, who has impressed with Ipswich Town in the Premier League this season.

Lineker pointed out that Osimhen’s price tag has inflated due to the high demand for quality strikers. He stated, “Victor Osimhen would undoubtedly score goals for Arsenal, but the whole world knows they need a striker, which means his price has skyrocketed. A player who might have cost £60-70 million will now be valued at £100-110 million when Arsenal come knocking.”

The former Leicester City and Barcelona striker further added that Arsenal could explore alternative targets, including Delap, who has had an impressive breakthrough season despite playing for a newly promoted side. Lineker believes that Delap’s movement and potential make him an intriguing option for Arsenal’s long-term future.

Chelsea are also considering Delap as a potential signing, and Manchester City, who previously sold him, have a buy-back clause in place. This means that Arsenal would face competition if they were to pursue the Ipswich forward instead of Osimhen.

Arsenal’s transfer strategy this summer will be crucial, as they aim to build a squad capable of consistently competing for the Premier League and Champions League. The club has invested heavily in recent transfer windows, signing key players such as Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, but the addition of a prolific striker remains a priority.

Osimhen’s arrival at Arsenal would not only boost their attacking firepower but also send a strong message to their Premier League rivals. However, the financial aspect of the deal remains a significant hurdle, and the Gunners will have to decide whether to meet Napoli’s asking price or explore alternative options.

With the summer transfer window approaching, Arsenal will have to act swiftly if they want to secure Osimhen ahead of Manchester United and other interested clubs. The Nigerian star’s decision will also play a key role, as he will weigh his options carefully before making a move.

As things stand, Arsenal are preparing to open negotiations, but the battle for Osimhen’s signature is far from over. The coming weeks will be decisive in determining whether the Nigerian striker will be wearing the red and white of Arsenal next season or heading elsewhere in search of a new challenge.