Arsenal 'could swap Victor Osimhen for Arsenal star' in ambitious player-plus-cash deal

Arsenal are plotting an ambitious 'player-plus-cash swap deal' for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in January, according to reports in Italy.

The Gunners' 1-0 victory over title rivals Manchester City has left them joint-top of the Premier League table, but there remains concern over their lack of a prolific goalscorer up front.

Mikel Arteta has relied heavily on Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah in recent games, both of whom have been guilty of wasting chances in front of goal.

That has led to speculation that the north London side may invest in a new striker, with Napoli talisman Osimhen linked with a move to the Emirates.

The Nigerian has less than two years remaining on his current deal at the Serie A club, and may choose turn down a new contract following a series of 'unacceptable' TikTok videos posted by Napoli involving Osimhen.

The 24-year-old isn't expected to come cheap, though, with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis not interested in entertaining any offers below £150 million, claim Italian outlet Il Mattino.

However, the Gunners may have a method of sweetening that deal by using Jesus as part of a player-plus-cash swap deal.

That's according to Football Italia, who state that "Napoli have identified Jesus as one of their three targets to replace Osimhen should the star striker depart, opening the door to a possible swap deal in January."

Meanwhile, Arsenal could face competition from London rivals Chelsea, who are reportedly plotting a double swoop for Osimhen and Brentford forward Ivan Toney.

Toney has also been the subject of interest from the Gunners after Brentford set set an £80m asking price on the 27-year-old.

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Topics: Arsenal, Transfers, Napoli, Gabriel Jesus, Victor Osimhen, Mikel Arteta, Football, Serie A

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno