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‘World-class’ player won’t be joining Arsenal in January now 

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Journalist Dean Jones has suggested that Napoli striker Victor Osimhen won’t be joining Arsenal in January.

Speaking on the Ranks FC Podcast, Jones shared an update on Arsenal’s search for a new striker. 

Arsenal have enjoyed an encouraging start to the new campaign as they moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 4-3 win at Luton last night. But many have questioned whether Mikel Arteta needs to bring in a striker to get over the lines in the title race. 

Indeed, Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah haven’t exactly proven to be prolific goalscorers this season.

And alongside Brentford’s Ivan Toney, Victor Osimhen is a name who continues to be linked with a move to North London. 

Gary Lineker Victor Osimhen Arsenal Chelsea Manchester United
Photo by Matteo Ciambelli / DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Arsenal are reportedly weighing up a move for the Napoli star, with Arteta particularly keen on the deal.

Yet, Jones just can’t see Arsenal spending over £100 million to land a new striker in January.

Arsenal won’t sign Osimhen in January

Jones believes a deal for Osimhen to join Arsenal in January may be out of reach due to the fee he will command.

“At the moment as we look at it, two names that get talked about the most are Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen,” the journalist said.

“Victor Osimhen I see as a deal you won’t be able to do in January and I certainly don’t see Arsenal spending in excess of £100m to go and sign a centre-forward.”

Luton Town v Arsenal FC - Premier League
Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images

Arsenal need a prolific goalscorer, despite Jesus’ excellent all-round displays while leading the line.

It’s no secret the Brazilian isn’t exactly a lethal finisher and Osimhen would certainly provide Arteta with a reliable source of goals.

The Nigerian striker has netted 65 times in 114 appearances during his time in Naples. His 31-goal season last time out propelled Napoli to a Serie A title. 

But we’d have to agree with Jones that a January move seems unrealistic.

It’s unlikely that Napoli would be willing to sell their star man midway through the season and Arsenal would have to pay above and beyond to lure the ‘world-class’ striker to the Emirates Stadium.