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Osimhen, Boniface On Four-Man Arsenal Strikers Shortlist

Published

1 year ago

Mar 4, 2024.

Arsenal have four strikers on their summer shortlist, including Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface
The Gunners struggled for goals during a poor run of form in December and January
Osimhen is top of Serie A’s scoring charts but will cost £113m to prize away from Napoli

Eko Hot Blog reports that Arsenal have apparently drawn up a four-man shortlist of striking options to target in the summer transfer window. Included on the list are Nigeria internationals Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface.

During a dismal spell of winter form, in which they won just one of seven games from December 9 to January 7 and scored only five goals, Arsenal fans were crying out for a new striker to arrive midway through the season. However, with the threat of Financial Fair Play sanctions hovering over them, the Gunners – who spent over £200m last summer on Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber – did not bring in any January reinforcements.

Mikel Arteta and Edu’s decision to stick with their existing options has proved justified though, as Arsenal have been on a sensational goalscoring run since returning from a mid-season training camp in Dubai.

They have won each of their first six Premier League games in 2024, netting a remarkable 25 goals. This includes bagging 15 goals in their last three matches against Newcastle United, Burnley and West Ham United.

Shortcomings in attack did surface recently however, as Arsenal drew a blank in a 1-0 first leg Champions League last 16 loss away to Porto. Leading striker Gabriel Jesus has struggled with knee problems at the Emirates, while Eddie Nketiah remains second choice and is not seen as a long-term solution.

Having also allowed Folarin Balogun to join Monaco last summer, recruiting a new striker is said to be top priority for Arsenal this coming transfer window.

According to TEAMtalk, four names are now under consideration, including Napoli’s prolific Victor Osimhen. He was Serie A’s top scorer last season with 26 goals as Napoli claimed the Scudetto, but is confirmed to be leaving the club this summer.

Arsenal reportedly trail Chelsea in the race for the Nigeria striker though, while Paris Saint-Germain are also keen. With Osimhen’s release clause set at a mammoth £113m, PSG would be better placed to meet Napoli’s demands.

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