Former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has emphasized the urgency for Arsenal to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming 2024/25 season by advocating for the signing of prolific Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli. With the summer transfer window approaching, Silvestre has urged Arsenal's sporting director Edu Gaspar and manager Mikel Arteta to prioritize the acquisition of a top-class striker, citing it as essential for the club's aspirations of contending for the Premier League title.
Silvestre, 46, identified Osimhen and Ollie Watkins as prime targets for Arsenal, asserting that they possess the potential to deliver 30 to 40 goals per season. He highlighted Osimhen's impressive track record at Napoli, where he has garnered over 70 goals and played a pivotal role in the club's Serie A triumph. Despite Osimhen's hefty release clause of £113 million, Silvestre believes his goal-scoring prowess would be a significant asset for Arsenal.
The former French international emphasized the importance of securing a striker capable of consistently finding the back of the net, emphasizing that such signings would signal Arsenal's intent to compete at the highest level. Osimhen's proven ability to create scoring opportunities for himself, coupled with Watkins' recent contract extension with Aston Villa, positions them as ideal candidates to lead Arsenal's attacking line.
For Arsenal, a club eager to reclaim its status among the Premier League's elite, the acquisition of Osimhen would represent a substantial coup. With reported interest from top clubs across Europe, including PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester United, Osimhen's signing would not only bolster Arsenal's offensive firepower but also signal their ambition in the transfer market.
Throughout the 2023/24 season, Osimhen has continued to impress, tallying 15 goals and eight assists in 28 appearances for Napoli across all competitions. His consistent performance and clinical finishing make him a coveted asset for Arsenal as they seek to strengthen their squad and mount a credible challenge for domestic and European honors in the seasons ahead.