Arsenal legend Rio Ferdinand has advised Mikel Arteta to make a bold January move for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, who could provide the firepower needed to reignite the Gunners’ Premier League title charge, Soccernet.football reports.
The North London side has struggled for consistency this season, with a lack of goals from open play significantly hampering their campaign.
Arsenal currently sit third on the league table, six points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
Arteta’s side has dropped points in eight of their 16 matches, leaving fans and pundits alike questioning the absence of a marquee centre-forward.
Victor Osimhen, on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has been a standout performer this season, scoring 10 goals and showcasing the qualities of a top-tier striker. His impressive form has caught the eye of several Premier League clubs, with Arsenal reportedly considering a January bid to secure his services.
Speaking on the need for a natural striker, Ferdinand told the Hard Tackle, “Now, you ain’t having a number nine that’s coming on impacting games. But I don’t even think you’ve got to buy an Osimhen, although I would buy Osimhen. But I’m saying like, you haven’t even got to buy the best out there who’s available. You’ve got to buy someone who can come in and impact games.”
With 20 league matches remaining, Ferdinand believes Osimhen could be the key to reviving Arsenal’s faltering title hopes.
The Nigerian forward’s loan deal includes a clause that allows him to join a bigger club in January, providing Arsenal with an opportunity to make a decisive move.