English Premier League side, Newcastle United are keen on signing Galatasaray striker, Victor James Osimhen, despite Chelsea’s long-standing interest in the Nigeria international, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 25-year-old was linked with a big-money exit from Napoli all summer but that didn’t happen as none of the European clubs were willing to pay his huge release clause.
Instead, he joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan, and has scored eight goals and provided four assists in nine games across all competitions for the Turkish side.
Without a doubt, it’ll be hard to see Osimhen extend his stay in Turkey beyond the loan agreement, especially as the player dreams of playing in the English Premier League. Nonetheless, Galatasaray are hoping they can tie the ex-LOSC Lille man to a permanent deal next summer.
As per Caught Offside, Eddie Howe’s Newcastle could be offered the chance to sign Osimhen next summer.
With Aleksandar Isak linked with a move to Arsenal, who are in dire need of a striker, Newcastle believe signing Osimhen will be a game-changer for them.
The Napoli loanee is undoubtedly one of the very finest strikers in the world on his day. Alongside, he’s got the tools of a complete striker, with his height, physique, skill, ambidexterity and finishing ability making him a superb all-rounder up front.
However, for this to happen, the Magpies will have to beat Chelsea in the race for the former VfL Wolfsburg striker.
Enzo Maresca’s Blues are still keen on Osimhen and are willing to upgrade on Nicolas Jackson, despite the improvement of the Senegalese this season.
For Newcastle to get an assurance of Osimhen putting pen to paper at the St James Park, they’d have to at least qualify for the UEFA Champions League, while also making sure Aleksandar Isak will be moved on when Osimhen arrives.