Former Arsenal and France midfielder Emmanuel Petit has identified Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as a “perfect fit” for a major club seeking a world-class forward, sparking speculation about the Nigerian star’s future. Petit’s comments come amid ongoing transfer rumors linking Osimhen to elite European teams, including Premier League sides.
In an exclusive interview with beIN Sports, Petit praised Osimhen’s attributes, stating: “Victor Osimhen has everything a modern striker needs—pace, power, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. He’s the kind of player who could thrive at a club competing for titles. I see him as a perfect fit for teams like Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, or even Arsenal, who need a proven No. 9 to elevate their attack.”
Petit, a 1998 World Cup winner and key figure in Arsenal’s 1997/98 double-winning squad, emphasized Osimhen’s adaptability: “He’s shown he can dominate in Serie A and the Champions League. The next step is a club where he’s the main man, week in, week out.”
The 25-year-old Super Eagles striker, who scored 26 goals in 32 Serie A appearances during Napoli’s 2022/23 title-winning campaign, has a contract with Napoli until 2026. However, reports from *Sky Sport Italia* suggest a release clause of approximately €120–130 million (£102–110m) could facilitate a summer move. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has publicly acknowledged Osimhen’s likely departure, telling *Mediaset* in May: “We know he’ll leave; we’re preparing for it.”
Chelsea and PSG have been strongly linked with Osimhen, with the latter seeking a replacement for Kylian Mbappé. Arsenal’s interest, per *The Athletic*, hinges on financial flexibility amid Financial Fair Play constraints. Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly monitoring the situation, though Osimhen has previously expressed a preference to remain in Europe.
Football transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano noted on X (formerly Twitter) that Osimhen’s camp is “weighing options carefully,” with Napoli pushing for a swift resolution. Serie A expert James Horncastle told *BBC Sport*: “Victor’s physicality and work rate make him suited to the Premier League. His next move will define his legacy.”
While the striker has remained publicly focused on Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers, he told *CAF Online* last week: “My priority is to improve every day. The rest is for my agent and clubs to discuss.”
As the transfer window heats up, Petit’s endorsement adds momentum to Osimhen’s status as one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. With Napoli braced for bids, the coming weeks could determine whether the Lagos-born star secures a blockbuster move to England, France, or beyond.
Arsenal Legend Emmanuel Petit Touts Victor Osimhen as Ideal Signing for Top European Club
