By Romario Paz
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, whose name has been linked to Liverpool in the past, is once again the subject of interest from a number of top clubs. Manchester United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are all reportedly after the Napoli player, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray. Due to the strained relationship between Osimhen and the Italian club, his departure seems imminent.
The release clause and interest from other clubs:
The three clubs mentioned are rumoured to be willing to pay the Nigerian international's $78 million (€75 million) release clause. While Liverpool are not mentioned on this occasion, the club have already shown interest in Osimhen in the past, notably under Michael Edwards.
Liverpool's past interest and Napoli's 'strategy':
A few months ago, Osimhen was linked with a possible move to Anfield before his loan move to Galatasaray was eventually finalised. However, Liverpool's interest dates back to 2020, when Edwards was managing the club's transfers. Back then, the 'Reds' were in the bidding for Osimhen, who was a standout for Lille with 18 goals in 38 games.
However, Napoli director Cristiano Giuntoli came up with a strategy to prevent Osimhen from negotiating with Liverpool. According to his former collaborator Giandomenico Costi, Giuntoli "locked" Osimhen in a hotel for three days to convince him to sign for Napoli. “Giuntoli knew Liverpool were interested, and Jurgen Klopp had made his move, but Cristiano spoke to Osimhen in the hotel for three days until he convinced him to accept Napoli,” Costi revealed.
Osimhen’s current situation and the possible opportunity for Liverpool:
Despite the tensions in his relationship with Napoli, Osimhen has been an outstanding performer at the club, scoring 76 goals in 133 games. However, his time in Serie A seems to be coming to an end.
Although Liverpool are not linked with Osimhen at the moment, his signing could be an option to consider, especially with the return of Michael Edwards working with FSG. The club could need a new striker in the future, and Osimhen would fit the profile.
The need for a striker at Liverpool:
Many Liverpool fans have expressed their impatience with Darwin Nunez, while Diogo Jota’s injury history raises questions about his reliability as a “9”. Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo have both played in that position, with Diaz performing well this season, but both perform better on the left wing.
Should Liverpool join the bidding?
If Osimhen is available, as seems likely, Liverpool should seriously consider joining the race for his signature, especially to prevent one of their Premier League rivals from snapping him up.
Bottom line:
Interest in Victor Osimhen has resurged, with Manchester United, Chelsea and PSG the main suitors.
Osimhen has a €75m release clause.
Liverpool already showed interest in Osimhen in 2020, under Michael Edwards.
The relationship between Osimhen and Napoli is strained, making his exit easier.
Liverpool could need a new striker in the future, and Osimhen would fit the bill.
The club should consider joining the bidding for Osimhen to bolster their forward line and prevent other rivals from signing him.
Osimhen's possible arrival at Liverpool would represent an important reinforcement for the team's attack, offering a quality option with great goalscoring potential. The final decision will depend on the club's management and the player's intentions, but it is certainly an option worth considering.
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