Arsenal Deterred by Osimhen's Steep Asking Price
Prince Jean
Aug 14, 2024
Arsenal may face challenges in acquiring top forward targets Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, according to sources speaking with Football Insider. Credit:gettyimages
Arsenal remains active in the summer transfer market, with potential forward acquisitions still under consideration, according to Football Insider. Despite the looming departures of Eddie Nketiah and Emile Smith Rowe—Nketiah's transfer to Marseille having recently fallen through—the North London club is poised to reallocate funds to strengthen their attacking lineup. Manager Mikel Arteta, along with Arsenal's recruitment team, is currently reassessing both their squad and available forwards across Europe.
The Gunners have expressed a longstanding interest in Victor Osimhen of Napoli and Sporting CP's Gyokeres. However, securing either striker may prove financially challenging, as both are expected to command fees nearing the club-record £105 million paid for Declan Rice in 2023. Osimhen, with 76 goals from 133 appearances for Napoli since 2020, has positioned himself as one of the premier strikers globally and has attracted attention from high-spending clubs like Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
Meanwhile, Gyokeres, although a relatively new face on the European scene, has made a significant impact by netting 43 goals in 50 matches during the 2023-24 season for Sporting. As the transfer window approaches its final weeks, Arsenal's strategy will be crucial in determining whether they can secure a top-tier forward without surpassing their budget constraints.