Transfers
Osimhen Snub Sends Al Hilal After Arsenal Target
Victor Osimhen‘s next destination remains unknown but the Nigerian striker may shape the transfer strategy if several clubs this summer, according to Soccernet.ng.
Arsenal are set to face serious competition in the race to sign RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, with Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal reportedly ready to turn their attention to the Slovenian striker after missing out on Victor Osimhen.
According to CBS Sports, Sesko has emerged as a priority for the Saudi Pro League club should they officially walk away from a deal for Osimhen, who is said to have rejected multiple big-money offers in favour of a move to a top European club.
The 22-year-old Sesko is Mikel Arteta’s preferred striking option this summer as Arsenal search for the final piece in their title-chasing puzzle.
The Gunners, who finished second in the Premier League for the third consecutive season, are also targeting silverware in Europe after narrowly missing out on a place in the UEFA Champions League final.
Standing at 6ft 5in, Sesko’s aerial presence and finishing ability have made him a key target at the Emirates. Sky Sports reports that Arsenal have already held “initial talks” with Leipzig over a potential deal, though the player himself is said to be “relaxed” about his future and has no intention of forcing a move.
Sources quoted by CBS Sports claim: “Should Al Hilal have to abandon their pursuit of Osimhen then Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig is next on their list.”
It remains unclear whether Sesko would entertain the idea of a move to the Middle East at this stage of his career, but Al Hilal have the financial power to match Leipzig’s demands and offer a lucrative contract.
Despite heavy Saudi interest, the 22-year-old is reportedly “attracted to the possibility” of Champions League football with Arsenal and is “flattered by the club’s long-standing interest”.
Victor Osimhen keen on staying in Europe
Meanwhile, Osimhen appears to have made up his mind about avoiding the Saudi Pro League altogether.
The Nigerian striker is set to return to Napoli unless a Premier League offer arrives, though reports from Italy suggest he would be willing to rejoin Galatasaray, where he enjoyed a prolific loan spell last season.
La Repubblica, as per NTV Spor, reports: “Victor Osimhen, who rejected all the astronomical offers he received from Al Hilal one after another, made his choice.”
Galatasaray are reportedly prepared to meet the forward’s release clause and offer him a €16 million salary package. Napoli, however, remain unwilling to discount their valuation of the 26-year-old.
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