According to Calciomercato, Liverpool have moved decisively in the race to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.
The Nigerian striker is currently contracted to the Serie A outfit until June 2025 and talks have stalled over an extension. As per Calciomercato, there is a ‘great frost’ between the player and club president Aurelio De Laurentiis which has made it difficult for him to commit to a new deal.
Osimhen is said to be eyeing a 100 per cent hike on his current £4 million a year wages and this is a stumbling block for Napoli. Furthermore, his representative wants an easy and cheap release clause in the new contract but De Laurentiis insists on setting the valuation at over £174 million.
Amidst this, Calciomercato claim that Osimhen could consider a switch to the Premier League. Liverpool are mentioned as the front-runners to sign him, having moved decisively with several direct contacts. The Merseyside giants could swoop for the £104 million star if Napoli can’t sort out a renewal.
Fantastic player
Liverpool parted ways with Roberto Firmino last summer following the expiry of his contract. They did not feel the need to sign a marquee striker but could do so next year. Mohamed Salah was the subject of interest from Al-Ittihad last summer, but the hierarchy rejected multiple offers.
The Saudi Pro League champions could return for him at the end of the campaign and there is a possibility that the Egyptian star could ask for a departure. In such a case, Liverpool need to be well prepared and they have probably identified Osimhen as a successor to their prized asset.
Salah has been a regular contributor of goals and assists for Liverpool from the right wing. The club may struggle to find a like-for-like replacement and they could sign a world-class striker instead in the form of Osimhen. The likes of Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo could fill the void left on the right wing.
