Chelsea lead Arsenal in race to sign Victor Osimhen
Chelsea are reportedly in front of Arsenal in the race to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.
The Nigeria international enjoyed a standout 2022-23 campaign, scoring 26 goals in 32 league games to guide Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years.
Unfortunately for the reigning champions, they have been unable to match that success this season, and they currently sit in ninth place in the Serie A table with 31 from 20 matches.
While his team has struggled on the pitch, Osimhen opted to put pen to paper on a new contract which runs until the summer of 2026.
Despite signing an extension with the Italian club, the forward’s future continues to draw significant speculation due to a reported €120m (£102.7m) release clause.
Napoli’s Victor Osimhen warms up in October 2023 © Reuters
Osimhen has also revealed that he has already made a decision over his future, hinting that a summer move could be on the cards.
With the 25-year-old on the lookout for a new challenge, Chelsea and Arsenal have emerged as two potential destinations.
However, according to Il Mattino, via Get Italian Football News, Chelsea are currently leading Arsenal in the race to secure Osimhen’s signature.
The report suggests that Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has made it clear that he will only part ways if Osimhen’s release clause is activated.
While Chelsea are open to bringing in a new striker in January, they could wait until the summer and pursue a deal for Napoli’s talisman.
Napoli’s Victor Osimhen on September 24, 2023 © Reuters
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The Blues are keen to strengthen in the final third, having been underwhelmed by Nicolas Jackson’s start to life in West London.
Despite scoring seven goals in 19 Premier League matches, the Senegal international has struggled for consistency in front of goal.
Christopher Nkunku has seen the early stages of his Chelsea career affected by injury, while Armando Broja has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.
As for Arsenal, they are looking to bolster their forward options, which currently include Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.