According to reports in Italy, Liverpool have entered the race alongside Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Arsenal to sign Nigerian and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in the summer transfer window.
As reported by Corriere dello Sport, Liverpool’s interest stems from their quest to bolster their attacking options in the upcoming summer transfer window, particularly to fill the void left by the underperforming Darwin Núñez.
The Uruguayan forward, who arrived at Anfield in 2022, has struggled to find his form this season, managing only 11 goals in 33 Premier League appearances.
Concerns persist regarding Núñez’s effectiveness as Liverpool’s main striker, especially given his recent goal drought spanning seven games. Hence, the Reds see Osimhen as a potential upgrade to lead their frontline.
Despite PSG being the front-runners in the pursuit of Osimhen, the Nigerian has a strong desire to ply his trade in the Premier League, offering Liverpool a glimmer of hope in securing his signature.
However, acquiring Osimhen would come at a significant financial cost for Liverpool, as they would need to trigger his €130 million release clause, which is €20 million less than the offer submitted by PSG last summer. Napoli’s chairman, Aurelio De Laurentiis, rebuffed PSG’s bid, indicating the hefty valuation placed on Osimhen by the Italian club.
The 25-year-old Nigerian striker seems destined to leave the Partenopei in the summer, having signed a new contract back in December that includes a €130million release clause, giving him a way out at the end of the season.
Amid an injury-rocked season, the Nigeria international has shined in Serie A, netting 14 goals and providing three assists in 22 league games.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
