Victor Osimhen is anticipated to leave Napoli during the summer transfer window, with Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and Chelsea all expressing interest in the Nigeria international over recent months. However, interest may have waned after Osimhen’s performance in the most recent season didn’t quite match his stellar 2022/23 campaign.

Despite scoring 17 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions last season, Osimhen’s tally fell 14 goals short of his previous season’s performance during Napoli’s Scudetto-winning campaign. Nonetheless, there remains interest in the striker, though his £113 million release clause, included in a new contract signed just over six months ago, could complicate potential moves.

Both Arsenal and Chelsea are in the market for a new striker, while PSG seeks a replacement for Kylian Mbappe. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments on Osimhen as the summer transfer window progresses.

Chelsea Looks to ‘Progress’ Deal

Chelsea is reportedly looking to reignite their pursuit of Osimhen this summer. According to CaughtOffside, the Blues are revisiting their interest in Osimhen after initially stepping back due to his hefty release clause. With two years remaining on his current deal, it remains to be seen how Chelsea plans to secure the star, although reports suggest Romelu Lukaku could be included in a player-plus-cash deal, potentially seeing him move to Napoli ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Maresca’s Stance

Enzo Maresca has hinted at the possibility of more signings, despite Chelsea having made five additions so far this summer. He believes the squad already possesses significant talent, suggesting he might not make major moves in the market early in his tenure at Stamford Bridge.

In an early July interview, Maresca expressed his excitement about the squad’s potential: “One of the reasons I’m here is because I’m convinced the squad is very good and full of talent. The most important thing now is we’re able to create the right culture that drives us for the season. If you are able to improve players, then you are able to improve the team. So it’s our target to try to improve all of them day by day.”

Osimhen to Arsenal Boost

Arsenal appears to be the only team actively in the race for Osimhen, according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio. “Osimhen, we assume that he will go away,” Di Marzio stated via Il Napolista. “At the moment, there is only Arsenal, who are far from the clause. If he were to leave, and at the moment it is not certain, the very first choice would be [Romelu] Lukaku, the alternative is [Artem] Dovbyk from Girona.”

£113m Problem

Arsenal faces financial constraints that may hinder their ability to secure Osimhen. After spending over £200 million last summer, the Gunners must tread carefully to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Final Chelsea Decision

Although Chelsea initially appeared to be in a strong position to sign Osimhen, they have reportedly decided against pursuing the striker. The club’s reluctance to pay his release clause, coupled with concerns about his injury record and fit within Maresca’s play style, has influenced their decision to withdraw their interest.