In a recent print edition, Gazetta dello Sport mentioned that Napoli centre-forward Victor Osimhen is unwilling to make a switch to Newcastle United. It has been claimed that the Magpies are still pushing to land the Nigerian forward this summer.
Osimhen’s Impressive Numbers At Naples Last Season
Osimhen had a decent campaign in Italy in the previous campaign when he produced several productive performances as the spearhead of Napoli’s attack. The 23-year-old netted 18 times and grabbed six assists in 32 matches for the Italian side last season in various competitions.
The Nigerian sensation was a consistent performer in the final third as he averaged 3.4 shots, 0.6 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per game in Serie A.
However, Osimhen was a bit sloppy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half based on his pass completion rate of 70.5% in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
Osimhen Unwilling To Make A Switch To Newcastle United: Big Blow For Eddie Howe?
Osimhen can strike the ball with power and precision from long range. He can be a good finisher in the final third and can engineer a few meaningful openings for his teammates in and around the opposition penalty box. Osimhen can even time his runs well when trying to get in behind the opponent’s backline but needs to be more decisive up top.
At 23, the future is quite bright for the talented frontman. The Nigerian talent is currently one of the most prolific strikers in Serie A and has raised his stock in Europe based on his performances at Naples last season. Hence, it is no surprise that he is unwilling to join Newcastle United this summer as a striker of his quality should have ambitions to do well in European football.
The Magpies now have no choice but to turn their attention to some of their other targets this summer if they fail to convince the player to change his stance.
There is no denying that Osimhen’s unwillingness to seal a move to St. James’ Park will be a big blow for Eddie Howe and his plans for this summer transfer window. Still, the Tyneside giants have got enough time to bring in some much-needed firepower in this off-season.
