Arsenal to rival Chelsea in Victor Osimhen transfer race

Arsenal is preparing for an end-of-season bid to rival Chelsea for the signing of Super Eagles and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen. SportsRation reports.

Both teams are experiencing contrasting seasons in the Premier League, with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal contending for the title while Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea struggles in the middle of the table.

Both clubs share a common issue—scoring goals. Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson have not been as prolific as expected, prompting them to seek attacking reinforcements.

Victor Osimhen, the Napoli forward and reigning CAF Player of the Year, has been a primary target for Chelsea, with the club reportedly preparing a summer bid for the Nigerian striker, who has a €130m release clause in his contract valid until 2026.

In response, Arsenal, led by manager Mikel Arteta, is reportedly planning to make a strong push to secure Osimhen’s signature. However, Osimhen’s preference between the two clubs is not yet known.

In the event that the pursuit of Osimhen proves unsuccessful, Arsenal are also exploring alternative options, such as Brentford’s Ivan Toney.

The 25-year-old striker, currently on duty with Nigeria at the AFCON 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast, remains a highly sought-after talent in the upcoming transfer window