Arsenal have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, according to reports in Italy, that claim Arsenal are in talks.

The Gunners are looking to strengthen their attacking options this summer after a season where injuries to Gabriel Jesus and a lack of consistent backup options exposed their depth. Mikel Arteta has reportedly identified a top-tier striker as a priority, and Osimhen certainly fits that bill.

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has already confirmed that Osimhen will leave the club at the end of the season, sparking a transfer scramble among Europe’s elite. Il Mattino reports that Arsenal have opened talks with Napoli and are currently leading the chase for the highly-rated Nigerian forward.

Osimhen enjoyed a stellar campaign last season, playing a key role in Napoli‘s Scudetto victory with 26 Serie A goals and five assists.

While Italian outlet CalcioNapoli suggests a transfer fee of around £77 million could be enough to secure Osimhen, this figure seems lower than Napoli‘s expected asking price, especially considering a potential bidding war. FourFourTwo cautions that a transfer is unlikely to be finalised before the summer window.

The biggest challenge for Arsenal might not be the transfer fee, but negotiating with De Laurentiis, who has a reputation for being tough. Osimhen himself may already be open to a move, but convincing Napoli to part ways with their star striker for a fee Arsenal can afford will be the real test for the club.