Napoli insider reveals Arsenal reluctant to trigger Osimhen's N207b release clause

Napoli insider and Sky Sport Italia reporter Francesco Modugno has revealed that Arsenal are unwilling to pay the €130m release clause of Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen.

Mikel Arteta is ambitious about reinforcing his squad next season to put a stop to Manchester City's dominance in the Premier League and go further in the UEFA Champions League.

As a result, the Gunners have emerged as a likely destination for the Napoli star following the withdrawal of Chelsea's interest in his services coupled with his ambition to play in the Premier League.

The 25-year-old has been tipped to improve the North London side but there has always been skepticism about the club's desire to pay his huge release clause.

Speaking to Calcio Napoli 24 via TBR, Modugno has stated that Arsenal are unwilling to trigger the release clause of the Nigerian striker.

"Today he has a €130million (N207 billion) clause that no club seems to be getting close to," Modugno said, as per Calcio Napoli 24.

"The dynamics change, but not the club's strategy. The Nigerian forward must fund almost the whole of Napoli's summer business.

"PSG remains a possibility. Arsenal too, but not at certain figures. Saudi Arabia seems like a life choice for Osimhen.

"With that money, Napoli must finance a new centre-forward, and (Romelu) Lukaku's profile is a guarantee for the manager."

After a disappointing season which saw them lose their Serie A crown and also finish outside the European spots, Napoli want to inject more quality to their squad.

They need the money from Osimhen's sale to fund their transfer budget but have to be cautious about their monetary expectations from the sale of the Nigeria international.

As it stands, Napoli will have to soften their stance on the purchase price of the 25-year-old if they are to sell him this summer with clubs being reluctant to pay his huge valuation.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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