Victor Osimhen: Arsenal Legend Advises Super Eagles Forward to Swap Napoli for Chelsea

Victor Osimhen: Arsenal Legend Advises Super Eagles Forward to Swap Napoli for Chelsea

Ero Samson
updated at February 13, 2024 at 11:54 AM
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  • Victor Osimhen remains one of football’s most courted forwards
  • The Nigerian striker was named the best Serie A forward of 2023
  • A former Arsenal star has advised the Napoli ace to join Chelsea

The imminent future of forward Victor Osimhen remains a widely discussed topic in the footballing world.

Following his outstanding season with Napoli in Serie A, the Nigerian forward has become a target for top clubs across Europe, especially those in the English Premier League.

Victor Osimhen, Serie A, Super Eagles, Adebayor, Transfer
Victor Osimhen in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and SSC Napoli. Image: Ivan Romano.
Source: Getty Images

Osimhen's remarkable record - scoring 31 goals in 39 appearances for the 2022/23 Serie A champions - as reported by Whoscored, earned him numerous accolades, including the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Player of the Year award, the award for the best Serie A forward of 2023, and the Capocannoniere prize, among others.

Despite interest from various elite clubs, a former Arsenal forward has recommended that Osimhen consider joining Chelsea.

Arsenal icon on Osimhen's future

Retired former Arsenal and Real Madrid star, Emmanuel Adebayor has suggested that Osimhen should consider joining the Blues, drawing parallels between the Nigerian forward and club legend, Didier Drogba.

In an interview with BBC Sport, the Togolese legend expressed his confidence in the Nigerian's abilities, stating:

"He has the right attitude, mentality, and determination to excel in [England]. I’m praying for him to move to the Premier League and show what he’s capable of. The Premier League is the toughest and best [league] in the world."

Emphasising the need for Osimhen's transfer, Adebayor added:

"Osimhen has shown and done it already in Italy. I think it is the right time for him to move to England and replace his idol, Drogba and do beautiful things. He has all it takes to make a name and write a great chapter in England like Drogba."

While a transfer to Chelsea might entail a substantial ₤120 million fee, Adebayor believes it is an achievable feat for the London club.

Recognising the Premier League club's current need for a prominent centre-forward, he emphasised that a player of Osimhen's calibre could play a pivotal role for Mauricio Pochettino’s side.

Osimhen tipped for AFCON MVP

Sports Brief also previously reported that former Chelsea star and ex-Nigeria captain, John Obi Mikel has backed Victor Osimhen to clinch the 2023 AFCON Player of the Tournament award.

The 24-year-old Napoli forward is expected to play a critical role for the Super Eagles as coach Jose Peseiro’s team aims to secure Africa’s biggest football trophy for the first time since 2013.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).
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