Why does Osimhen prefer transfer to Arsenal over Man Utd?
Cameron Smith
- 6 May 2022 15:25 BST
- 4 min read
Victor Osimhen is one of the most in-demand players across Europe and he could leave Napoli this summer.
The Nigerian forward is still just 23 years old, but he has been touted for a move worth up to €95 million.
That's the price tag that Napoli have reportedly placed on Osimhen's head this summer, which isn't too surprising given his contract doesn't expire until 2025 and the Serie A side reportedly paid €70m to sign him.
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The exact amount Npaoli paid Lille for the forward isn't known and Corriere dello Sport have previously reported a more accurate fee is €47.5m.
However, Napoli reportedly want a fair amount more than that if they're to sell Osimhen this summer.
The former Lille striker has scored 17 goals and assisted six in just 29 appearances this season, and that form has alerted the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United.
Both clubs have been linked with a move for Osimhen this summer, among plenty of other names, while Newcastle United remain interested.
However, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Osimhen would prefer a move to Arsenal rather than to Man Utd. Arsene Wenger previously held talks with a young Osimhen during his time at Arsenal, but a deal never materialised.
But, the player remains open to the idea of joining Arsenal should he leave Napoli this summer. Although Arsenal may not have the funds to sign the Nigerian international, it signals clear intent from the Gunners if they're able to entice a player as highly rated as Osimhen.
For Man Utd, however, the report will come as a hammer blow. Edinson Cavani is almost certain to leave, while Cristiano Ronaldo isn't guaranteed to still be playing for the club next season. In any case, Erik ten Hag is likely to pursue at least one striker this summer as he attempts to rebuild the squad. But, it doesn't look likely to be Osimhen.
Why does Osimhen prefer a move to Arsenal over Man Utd?
Champions League football
Perhaps the most important reason is simply due to how the two teams have fared this season. While Man Utd finished second last year and looked fairly more advanced in their squad building than Arsenal, they've regressed this year while the Gunners have done the opposite.
The lure of playing in Europe's elite club competition is great for any player and it will be for Osimhen, who would sacrifice that completely be joining Man Utd. After all, Napoli will be playing Champions League football next year, so it's hard to imagine the Nigerian playing for a Europa League club by the time the season rolls around.
An exciting, young squad
Mikel Arteta has hand-crafted a side with a clear identity and style, and Osimhen could seamlessly fit into it. While at Man Utd there remains a concern over whether Ronaldo will stay or go, Arsenal will 100% need a starting striker this summer.
With that in mind Osimhen is guaranteed minutes and he'll be surrounding by a thriving young attack built with the purpose of quick, flowing football with a plentiful supply of chances.
Man Utd have an ageing selection of players and aren't yet ready to compete. Arsenal won't win the Premier League next season but they're at least heading in the right direction.
Avoid the mess at Man Utd
Erik ten Hag has been brought in by Man Utd to fix their problems on and off the pitch. But it's not an overnight job. It will take time, and Osimhen won't want to wait around.
The mentality at the club needs to change and with nearly €800m spent since they last won a trophy, Man Utd's solution of late has simply been to throw money at the problem. It hasn't worked and there's no reason why throwing money at Osimhen will work either.
Given what's happened to big-money signings such as Paul Pogba, Harry Maguire and Jadon Sancho, it doesn't look promising for Osimhen.
Arsenal are on the up, however, and provide a far more interesting and appealing project right now.
