Arsenal can sign 'world-class' 25yo star at discount by offering two players - report

Arsenal have the opportunity to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in a part-exchange deal this summer, according to Corriere dello Sport.

The Nigerian star has been tipped to leave the Serie A giants in the upcoming transfer window, but the club are reluctant to negotiate on the price.

Leah Williamson extends her contract with Arsenal

0 seconds of 1 minute, 17 seconds

Osimhen currently has a release clause worth £111 million in his contract and Napoli are holding out for a similar package to part ways with him.

Saudi giants Al-Hilal have the capacity of triggering the clause, but Corriere (page 6) claim that Osimhen dreams of playing in the Premier League.

Arsenal are brought into the picture as a result. The clause is an obstacle for the Gunners, but they have players that Napoli could be interested in.

Emile Smith Rowe has recently emerged as a transfer option for them. The Naples outfit were also interested in signing Takehiro Tomiyasu last winter.

Smith Rowe could be used as a makeweight in Osimhen deal

Arsenal are yet to make a formal approach for Osimhen, who netted 17 goals for Napoli last term.

The 25-year-old missed 10 games in the campaign with multiple injuries. He is currently out for a few weeks with a fresh injury, ruling him out of the World Cup qualifiers with Nigeria.

Taking this into regard, we are not convinced over a move for Osimhen, who was described as a ‘world-class‘ striker by Jose Mourinho when he was Roma’s manager last season.

The former Lille man has the knack for picking up short-term issues. The higher intensity of the Premier League may not suit him.

If Arsenal were to consider a player-plus-cash deal, Smith Rowe is more likely to be involved rather than Tomiyasu, who penned a new long-term contract with the club earlier this year.

Smith Rowe, who is also on the radar of Fulham, managed less than 500 minutes last season. He had to contend with a regular role on the bench with the strong competition for places.

The club graduate could be open to a new challenge away from the club and Napoli would be a lucrative destination. The Partenopei are said to be eyeing another attacking midfielder.

We should get a clear idea on Arsenal’s stance on Osimhen later this month.