According to a recent report by the Chronicle Live, Newcastle United are interested in securing the signature of Victor Osimhen from LOSC Lille during this winter transfer period. The same source has claimed that the Magpies boss Steve Bruce is eager to add more quality to his squad and has identified the Nigerian striker as an ideal candidate to lead the line at St. James’ Park.
It is believed that the Tyneside giants will have money to spend when the transfer window reopens in January (via the Chronicle Live), so a potential move for the Ligue 1 sensation is well within the realms of possibility.
Osimhen’s Prolific Form In French Football
Since sealing a move from RSC Charleroi earlier this summer, the Lagos-born has been in red hot form as he has put in some glorious match-winning displays for Christophe Galtier’s side in the French top-flight. Osimhen has netted eight goals and created two assists in 12 appearances for Lille this term in all competitions.
The 20-year-old has also represented the Nigerian national team in seven international matches and has scored one goal for his nation thus far. The Ligue 1 speedster is currently playing the best football of his young career and is expected to only get better with each season.
What Will The Nigerian Youngster Bring To St. James’ Park?
Osimhen is blessed with electric pace, which helps him make some well-timed runs behind the opposition backline. The Nigerian starlet can be a powerful presence inside the opposition penalty area as he as the upper body strength to hold the ball up. He can also score a few goals with his head which makes him a complete centre-forward.
However, he is still quite inexperienced and might struggle to cope with the high intensity of English football. Furthermore, Osimhen will have to sacrifice UEFA Champions League football if he intends to seal a switch to Tyneside in January. The acquisition of a striker of Osimhen’s potential will undoubtedly bolster Bruce’s attacking options at St. James Park.
Newcastle have currently got Joelinton operating as their first-choice centre-forward with the likes of Yoshinori Muto, Andy Carroll and Dwight Gayle playing as the back-ups in their squad. However, none of Bruce’s current options have been able to score goals regularly in the English top-flight. Thus, it makes sense for Bruce to splash some cash on a new frontman who will be able to come in and compete with Joelinton for a starting berth at Tyneside.
