Arsenal won’t pose a threat to Chelsea in the race to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
Writing in his column for GiveMeSport, Jacobs said that the Gunners have not made a concerted effort to buy the Nigerian international while the player has already expressed a preference to make the switch to Stamford Bridge:
“Arsenal are also hoping to add a striker this window, but links with Napoli frontman Victor Osimhen are premature since there has been no meaningful movement to date. GMS also understands that the Nigeria international prefers a move to Chelsea over the Gunners.”
Jacobs did, however, emphasise that Chelsea still need the “overall cost” of the deal to come down “considerably” for a move to go ahead before the transfer window shuts on August 30th.
What are the obstacles in the way of signing Osimhen?
Chelsea made it clear early in talks that they wanted to loan the 25-year-old, with an option to buy included in the deal. However, that proposal was rejected out of hand by the player.
Osimhen wants a guaranteed transfer away from Napoli and he is also keen to maintain his current salary. He currently takes home more than £200,000 a week.
It means Enzo Maresca’s side will have to find ways of funding the move this summer (he could cost as much as £90m), as well as freeing up the wage bill.
Chelsea are targeting other strikers
Due to concerns that the Blues cannot afford Osimhen, several alternatives have been lined up. The Telegraph reports that there are at least three other targets on the club’s shortlist. We have listed a few potential options in this article here.
However, Chelsea have not given up hope on recruiting Osimhen, especially because they know the forward is keen on joining them.
