PSG Withdraw from Victor Osimhen Negotiations, Opening Door for Arsenal’s Pursuit of Napoli Star

Arsenal has re-entered the race for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen following Paris Saint-Germain’s decision to withdraw from negotiations, according to reports.

The Gunners are actively seeking a new striker during the summer transfer window, with Osimhen being linked alongside other forwards such as Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, and Brentford’s Ivan Toney.

Last season, Kai Havertz was utilized as a forward on 20 occasions, despite being signed primarily as a midfielder.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah managed just nine Premier League goals between them as Arsenal finished as runners-up to Manchester City on the final day of the season.

While Arsenal scored 91 goals in 38 Premier League matches, many believe that a more clinical striker could enhance their title challenge next season.

It appears that both Mikel Arteta and Arsenal sporting director Edu share this sentiment, as they continue to explore various attacking options.

Earlier in the summer, Arsenal reportedly stepped back from discussions to sign Osimhen due to the financial implications of a deal.

However, recent reports from Italy suggest that the Gunners have now “returned” to negotiations after PSG was unable to secure an agreement with Napoli regarding the striker’s transfer.

Napoli’s asking price remains a sticking point, with the Italian club valuing Osimhen at €130 million and seeking a minimum of €100 million for the prolific forward.

Chelsea also maintains an interest in Osimhen, who has expressed a longstanding desire to play in the Premier League.

Football Transfers corroborates these developments, stating that PSG has opted to “pull out” of talks for Osimhen and will instead focus on their current attacking options. PSG sources have expressed confidence in their current lineup, which includes Goncalo Ramos and Randal Kolo Muani, and dismissed rumors of stalled negotiations, asserting that discussions have now concluded.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano provided an update on Osimhen’s situation, noting that while the player had previously indicated a willingness to join PSG, the French club did not agree to the conditions set by Napoli.

PSG’s reluctance to pay Osimhen’s release clause and include Kang In-Lee in the deal contributed to their decision to back away.

Romano stated, “The intention of Victor Osimhen remains to leave in the summer. Napoli’s goal is clear: they want Romelu Lukaku. Manager Antonio Conte is very interested in Lukaku, and discussions have already occurred between them.”

He added that while Chelsea remains an option for Osimhen, any potential move hinges on a reassessment of his release clause and salary. “There’s nothing advanced or concrete, but if the deal with PSG collapses, it could remain a viable option, especially with ongoing discussions between Napoli and Chelsea regarding Lukaku.”