Newcastle to be ‘offered’ blockbuster Victor Osimhen signing in deal that would stun Chelsea

Victor Osimhen is being linked with a move to Newcastle United, who are reportedly set to be offered the opportunity to sign the Nigerian striker in the summer. Osimhen was expected to leave Napoli last summer after attracting interest from Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and several Saudi Arabian clubs. However, no deal materialized before the European transfer deadline, leaving the striker in limbo. Napoli then replaced him with Romelu Lukaku, and Osimhen was left without a starting role at the club. This situation led to a frustrating start to the season for the 25-year-old forward.

However, Galatasaray came to Osimhen’s rescue by offering him a loan move for the season. The Turkish club has expressed interest in making the deal permanent, but it may be difficult to convince Osimhen to stay at Galatasaray long-term. According to reports, Newcastle United will be given the chance to sign the striker at the end of the season when he looks for a new club. Osimhen’s representatives believe that several Premier League clubs, including Newcastle, will be keen to secure his services.

Newcastle’s interest in Osimhen is not new. The club had been scouting him before he made the move from Belgian side Charleroi to Lille in 2019. Newcastle officials are believed to have been impressed by his performances in recent seasons, including his recent displays for Galatasaray in the Europa League. Osimhen scored twice in a 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, which further showcased his ability to perform at a high level. While Osimhen’s wage demands used to be a concern for Newcastle, as he previously earned £200,000 a week, his current salary at Galatasaray is £110,000 per week, which fits more comfortably within Newcastle’s financial structure.

If Osimhen proves too expensive for Newcastle or opts for a move elsewhere, the club has other options in mind. One potential alternative is Jonathan David of Lille, who has been in excellent form this season. David has scored 13 goals in 19 matches so far and will be a free agent in the summer. His potential availability could make him an attractive target for Newcastle as they look to strengthen their forward line.

Newcastle’s pursuit of Osimhen comes at an interesting time, with Chelsea also keen to sign the striker. Despite the strong form of their current striker, Nicolas Jackson, Chelsea has continued to monitor Osimhen’s situation. The Nigerian forward has long admired Didier Drogba, Chelsea’s legendary striker, and Osimhen has expressed a desire to follow in his footsteps by playing for the Blues. However, this does not guarantee that Chelsea will secure his signature, especially with other clubs like Newcastle entering the race.

In addition to the competition for Osimhen, Newcastle is facing pressure regarding the future of their own striker, Alexander Isak. Sources have confirmed that Arsenal has made Isak their top target, with the Gunners looking to strengthen their attacking options. Contract negotiations between Isak and Newcastle have stalled due to disagreements over wages, and Isak is reportedly eager to play in the Champions League, which Newcastle cannot currently offer. If Isak leaves Newcastle, Osimhen or David would be ideal replacements for the Swedish striker.

Elsewhere, Newcastle has been advised to avoid hiring Jose Mourinho as their next manager, should Eddie Howe depart. Recent reports have suggested that Mourinho is interested in returning to the Premier League, with Newcastle being his preferred destination. However, some pundits have criticized the idea, describing Mourinho as a “dinosaur” and urging the club to look for a more modern option. Additionally, former footballer Paul Merson has expressed surprise that Arsenal didn’t make a move for Isak during the summer, saying the 25-year-old could have been the missing piece for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Osimhen’s reputation as one of Europe’s top strikers continues to grow. He was named Serie A Player of the Year and top scorer for the 2022-23 season and won the African Player of the Year award in 2023. He has also enjoyed success with Lille, where he was named Player of the Season in 2019-20, and he was a standout performer for Nigeria during the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, winning the Golden Boot. His proven track record makes him an attractive option for clubs like Newcastle, who are looking to continue their rise in the Premier League.

In conclusion, while Newcastle United faces competition from Chelsea and other clubs for Osimhen, they are in a strong position to sign the striker if they choose to pursue him. However, with other potential targets like Jonathan David also in the mix, Newcastle has options to strengthen their attack in the summer. The future of Alexander Isak could play a significant role in the club’s transfer strategy, and it remains to be seen whether they will be able to retain him or need to find a new forward to lead their attack.