Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea, all Premier League clubs, are facing the likelihood of missing out on Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. This is because French powerhouse Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has reportedly decided to trigger the €120 million release clause in the Nigerian striker’s current contract.
Despite recently extending his contract in December, Osimhen is expected to depart Napoli following a successful four-year tenure at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. With a reputation as one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers, the 25-year-old Nigerian international has attracted significant attention.
Osimhen played a pivotal role in Napoli’s triumph in the Serie A last season, marking their first league title in over three decades.
The Nigerian forward scored 31 goals in 39 matches, with 26 of those goals coming in league competitions.
Osimhen has amassed a total of 74 goals in 129 appearances for Napoli, leading to his association with several elite European clubs.
If Il Mattino’s report is accurate, it suggests that the Nigerian may be on his way to France. The Italian media outlet reported that the French giants are prepared to activate his release clause.
“Victor Osmihen is on the verge of joining PSG this summer! The French club has made the decision to activate his €120m release clause,” the publication reported.
This news will undoubtedly disappoint his suitors, particularly Arsenal and Chelsea. Both teams have identified Osimhen as their top target for bolstering their attacking options ahead of the 2024/25 season, with the player also expressing his interest in the move.
The Premier League clubs are in dire need of a striker for the upcoming season.
Chelsea has heavily relied on Nicolas Jackson to provide their goals, but the former Villarreal player has failed to deliver. His lackluster performances in recent matches against Manchester City and Arsenal have highlighted why the Blues are urgently seeking a reliable striker.
Meanwhile, although Arsenal has scored the highest number of goals in the Premier League this season, Mike Arteta still requires a clinical finisher, as Gabriel Jesus has failed to meet expectations.