According to a recent report by L’Equipe (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness), LOSC Lille centre-forward Victor Osimhen is set to decline Liverpool in favour of a move to Napoli this summer. The same source has also claimed that the Nigerian striker has been ‘the subject of a number of revivals from English clubs’ including the Reds, but he has decided to reject their advances and has confirmed his desire to seal a switch to Naples during the summer transfer window (via Sport Witness).
Osimhen’s Impressive Form In The French Top-Flight
The 21-year-old has enjoyed a productive season at Lille after producing several match-winning displays as the focal point of Christophe Galtier’s attack. He has scored 18 goals and grabbed six assists in 38 appearances for the French outfit this term on all fronts which highlight his incredible impact in front of the opposition goal.
Osimhen has averaged 3.2 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League this season (stats via whoscored). His stats shed light on just how consistent he has been as the main goal-scorer at Stade Pierre Mauroy.
The Lagos-born talent has played for Nigeria at various youth levels and has also secured eight senior caps for his country, registering four goals in the process. The ex-Bundesliga striker needs a change of scenery this summer so that he can take his game to the next level for both club and country in the years to come.
What Does The Ligue 1 Forward Offer On The Field?
Osimhen is one of the quickest players in European football and can be a constant menace for the opposition as he loves to make some well-timed runs in behind the last line of defence. The Nigerian international has transformed himself into a lethal finisher in the final third. He can strike the ball with a lot of power and precision, which makes him such a potent goal-threat. The talented striker can also use his strength to make himself a commanding presence in the air.
Missing Out On Osimhen: Big Blow For Klopp?
However, Osimhen can be a bit sloppy with his ball-distribution, and there are still some question marks over his ability to maintain his current standards consistently at the highest level. Missing out on the Nigerian marksman will be a big blow for Jurgen Klopp and his plans for this summer. He ticks all the right boxes in terms of what the Liverpool manager generally expects from his front players.
Osimhen’s blistering pace and power make him a worthy target for any of his potential suitors, including the Merseyside giants. The Nigerian wonderkid would have not only added more pace and goals to the Reds’ attack but also provided some much-needed competition for the likes of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Divock Origi at Anfield next season. Klopp will now have to look at some of his other transfer targets if he intends to strengthen his squad this summer.
