PSG move on from Arsenal-bound Osimhen, eye cheaper move for World Cup winner

Victor Osimhen future at Napoli remains unsolved (Photo Credit: Imago)

PSG move on from Arsenal-bound Osimhen, eye cheaper move for World Cup winner

Ayoola Kelechi 19:13 - 03.08.2024

With Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen reportedly close to joining Arsenal, PSG have turned their attentions to a World Cup winner

Paris Saint-Germain have shifted their focus from Napoli's Victor Osimhen as the Nigerian striker reportedly inches closer to a move to the Premier League with Arsenal.

The Gunners have reportedly made a significant bid for Osimhen, leading PSG to considering the more financially viable option of acquiring a different striker to strengthen their attacking line.

PSG target Julian Alvarez as Osimhen alternative

According to Foot Mercato, PSG have submitted a contract proposal to Julian Alvarez in an effort to entice the Manchester City striker to join the Ligue 1 champions.

Julian Alvarez scores the only goal of the game | Credit: Imago
Julian Alvarez scores the only goal of the game | Credit: Imago Julian Alvarez scores the only goal of the game | Credit: Imago

Alvarez, who has already stated that he is keen to secure more playing time, is open to leaving the Premier League this summer, and the potential deal would involve PSG paying a fee in the range of €70 million to €80 million for the World Cup winner.

Transfer specialist, Fabrizio Romano reports that PSG have initiated discussions with Manchester City as well to explore the feasibility of the move. Luis Enrique, PSG’s manager, has approved the pursuit of Alvarez and believes the Argentine striker would be a valuable addition to the squad following Kylian Mbappe’s departure to Real Madrid.

Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi scored Argentina's goals against Canada (Credit: Imago)
Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi scored Argentina's goals against Canada (Credit: Imago) Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi scored Argentina's goals against Canada (Credit: Imago)

The former River Plate forward’s willingness to transition to Ligue 1 remains uncertain. However, PSG are hopeful that the opportunity to play a key role in their squad and the promise of more regular playing time could convince Alvarez to make the switch.

Arsenal's lead pursuit of Osimhen

The Super Eagles striker has been the subject of a prolonged transfer saga, attracting interest from several top European clubs. Initially, PSG were in the running for Osimhen, but negotiations with Napoli stalled over the transfer fee.

Victor Osimhen is expected to leave Napoli this summer || Imago

Arsenal have moved ahead of PSG and Chelsea in the pursuit of Napoli's Victor Osimhen as reports from Radio Radio indicate that the Gunners have submitted a higher transfer fee offer than PSG to secure The Nigerian’s services.

Despite this, Arsenal’s proposed salary package for the Super Eagles striker is lower than that of the Ligue 1 champions.

Victor Osimhen has returned to training with Napoli amid transfer speculation around his future.
Victor Osimhen Napoli forward (Photo Credit: Imago)

Osimhen recently signed a new contract with Napoli, which includes a release clause in the range of €120 million to €130 million and Arsenal’s aggressive bid suggests they are prepared to meet Napoli’s valuation, unlike PSG who appear to be resigned to losing out on the Nigeria international.