Why in-demand Nigerian hot property Osimhen could be the striker for Liverpool and Slot

Man of the moment, Victor Osimhen (left) and Arne Slot, Liverpool's new coach.

Why in-demand Nigerian hot property Osimhen could be the striker for Liverpool and Slot

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:56 - 05.04.2025

Liverpool are one of several European giants monitoring the progress of Nigeria and Super Eagles main man Victor Osimhen, who continues to light up Europe with goals at Galatasaray.

 The Premier League’s runaway leaders, Liverpool, are reportedly eyeing a blockbuster move for Napoli’s on-loan striker Victor Osimhen, according to this report by Pulse Sports Nigeria. 

As Arne Slot’s side dominates the 2024-25 season, sitting 13 points clear at the top, the Reds are already planning to bolster their squad for next term, and the Nigerian hotshot could be the perfect fit. 

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But what exactly are Liverpool looking for, and does Osimhen match the profile of a club renowned for its data-driven approach?

What Liverpool want in a Striker

With the summer transfer window looming, Liverpool are on the hunt for a dynamic No. 9 to lead their attack. 

Arne Slot
Liverpool manager Arne Slot. Arne Slot has been reprimanded for a delayed decision in Liverpool’s draw with Manchester United (Credit: Imago)

Per Sky Sports, manager Slot is seeking a player who is athletic, fast, and powerful, someone capable of spearheading the line with authority. 

The Reds’ current forward Darwin Nunez has struggled to justify his price tag, managing just five Premier League goals this season and starting only eight matches. His uncertain future has intensified the need for a reliable goal-scorer.

Darwin Nunez has not lived up to the hype at Liverpool || Imago

Beyond raw pace and power, Liverpool’s data-savvy recruitment team is also prioritising technical ability. They want a striker who can link play, bring teammates like Mohamed Salah into the game, and reduce the club’s overreliance on the Egyptian superstar’s goals. 

With Salah’s contract situation still unresolved, reconfiguring the attack is a top priority for Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes.

Mohamed Salah
Mohammed Salah of Liverpool || Imago Mohamed Salah in action for Liverpool (Credit: Imago)

Who Is Victor Osimhen?

Currently tearing it up at Galatasaray on loan from Napoli, Osimhen is a name that’s hard to ignore. 

The 26-year-old Super Eagles striker has been in sensational form, racking up 28 goals and five assists in just 32 appearances this season. 

Victor Osimhen leading Galatasaray from the front again.

Known for his aerial dominance, lightning speed, and aggressive style, Osimhen has the physical tools to thrive in the Premier League.

But it’s not just his athleticism that stands out. Osimhen’s knack for finding the net and his growing playmaking ability, evidenced by those five assists, make him a versatile threat. 

Osimhen attempts a header in the game.

His profile aligns closely with what Liverpool crave: a focal point who can both finish and facilitate, potentially unlocking the full potential of Slot’s high-pressing, fluid system.

Why Osimhen Makes Sense for Liverpool

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy thrives on finding players who fit both their tactical blueprint and their data models. 

Victor Osimhen has a penchant for scoring acrobatic goals | Imago

Osimhen’s blend of physicality, goal-scoring ability, and improving link-up play checks all the boxes. 

At 26, he’s entering his prime, offering both immediate impact and long-term value, key factors for a club that balances ambition with financial prudence.

Victor Osimhen was a handful for Fenerbahce's defenders.

As the Reds prepare for a busy summer, they could see Osimhen as the key piece of the puzzle. Whether it’s replacing Nunez or complementing Salah, the Nigerian star could transform Liverpool’s attack into an even more fearsome unit.

The Transfer Buzz

Osimhen has long dreamed of a Premier League move, an ambition that nearly came to fruition last summer when Chelsea pushed hard to sign him. 

Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson has 9 goals and 5 assists in the PL this season.| Imago

However, Napoli’s £100-plus valuation proved a stumbling block, leaving the Blues empty-handed as the transfer window slammed shut. 

Now, with just one year left on his Napoli contract and his loan spell at Galatasaray nearing its end, his price tag could drop, making him an enticing option for Liverpool.

Victor Osimhen and Napoli owner Aurelio de Laurentiis | Imago

While the Reds admire him, deservedly so, no concrete move has been confirmed at the time of writing, signalling their intent to compete for one of Europe’s most sought-after talents. 

Chelsea, still smarting from their summer miss, are likely to re-enter the race, setting the stage for a potential transfer tug-of-war.

Enzo Maresca is a happy coach again after Jackson.

What’s Next?

For now, Liverpool’s focus remains on clinching the Premier League title. But behind the scenes, the wheels are turning. 

Victor Osimhen, the in-demand striker lighting up Turkey, might just be the man to take Anfield by storm in 2025. 

Arne Slot
Arne Slot has had an incredible start to life at Liverpool. Liverpool head coach Arne Slot (Credit: Imago)

Keep an eye on this one—the summer transfer window could deliver yet another headline-grabbing move for the Reds.