There are increasing reports that Napoli will look to sell star striker Victor Osimhen in the January transfer window. Despite his good start to the season, with six goals and one assist in his first 10 games, Osimhen’s relationship with the club’s hierarchy has deteriorated. Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis held talks with the player over a new contract, but negotiations were unsuccessful. The club then made a social media post mocking Osimhen after a penalty miss, leading to complaints from his agent. De Laurentiis has now accepted that Osimhen will be sold in January, although the club denies any “tense situation” with the player.
Various clubs have been linked with a move for Osimhen, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool. However, Osimhen’s playing style as a penalty-box striker may not suit Liverpool, who already have Darwin Núñez, another striker who excels in the penalty area. In contrast, Chelsea have signed forwards who do not have the same profile as Osimhen, making them potential suitors. Arsenal, who are reportedly looking for a proven No.9, would also be a good fit for Osimhen.
The Nigerian striker has proven himself as a prolific goalscorer, with 26 goals in 32 league games last season. All of his goals came from inside the box, highlighting his skill as a penalty-box striker. This distinguishes him from other top goalscorers like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé, who score a significant number of goals outside the penalty area. Clubs interested in signing Osimhen should be looking for a player with a similar playing style.
Overall, it appears likely that Osimhen will leave Napoli in January due to his deteriorating relationship with the club’s hierarchy. While Liverpool may not be a suitable destination, Chelsea and Arsenal have been mentioned as potential suitors due to their need for a penalty-box striker. Osimhen’s impressive goalscoring record and playing style make him an attractive prospect for several top clubs in Europe.
