Victor Osimhen is poised to reject a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, a decision that could be a significant boost for Chelsea and Arsenal in their hunt for a top striker. Napoli had reportedly been considering a £60 million offer from Al Ahli, with new coach Antonio Conte eyeing Romelu Lukaku as Osimhen’s potential replacement.
Despite Napoli’s interest in cashing in on the Nigerian star, Osimhen remains committed to staying in Europe. His agent, Roberto Calenda, took to X to express their stance, criticizing Napoli’s approach and reaffirming Osimhen’s desire to continue his career in Europe. Calenda emphasized that Osimhen is not merely a commodity to be traded, highlighting his recent accomplishments, including being named African Footballer of the Year and finishing eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
Calenda’s statement also pointed out the respect and balance needed in handling such situations, reinforcing that Osimhen has unfinished business in European football. Napoli had inserted a £109 million release clause in Osimhen’s contract when they extended his deal last December, but so far, no club has been willing to meet that price, despite interest in selling the player.
Arsenal, reportedly looking for a new forward before the transfer deadline on Friday, have shown interest in Osimhen, though no official bid has been made. Chelsea, on the other hand, are reportedly in talks for a loan deal involving Osimhen, with Lukaku potentially heading to Napoli as part of the arrangement.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain, who had also been linked with Osimhen, appear to have moved on by signing Desire Doue for £42 million, likely as a replacement for Kylian Mbappe. Osimhen’s decision to stay in Europe keeps him in the sights of top clubs, and with the transfer deadline approaching, it remains to be seen if Chelsea or Arsenal will make a decisive move.
