Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has backed Victor Osimhen to bring greater physical presence to the Gunners’ attack if the Nigerian striker completes a move to the Premier League club.
Petit was discussing Arsenal’s options in the final third when he identified Osimhen as a potential alternative to Julián Alvarez, with the Napoli striker reportedly valued at around £100 million.
Speaking in an interview monitored by PUNCH Online on Friday, Petit said Osimhen and Alvarez possess different qualities but believes the Nigerian could give Arsenal a more powerful presence up front.
“Next one for Arsenal then is Victor Osimhen at £100 million,” Petit said.
“They are different players. Not the same quality as Alvarez, but he will bring a powerful presence up front.”
The former France international also pointed to Osimhen’s pace, determination and strong personality as qualities that could make him an effective option for Arsenal.
“He’s fast, he’s a fighter, he’s got a bad temper as well, a strong personality,” Petit added.
According to Petit, Osimhen would offer Arsenal a different attacking profile from Alvarez, although he believes both players would represent quality options for the club.
“So, he will bring something different from Alvarez, but it’s two different options. Both of them are good,” he said.
Osimhen has established himself as one of Europe’s leading centre-forwards, with his combination of pace, strength and movement making him a constant threat around the penalty area.
A potential move to Arsenal would see the Nigerian return to the Premier League and give him another opportunity to compete at the highest level in English football.
For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, Osimhen’s physicality and ability to attack space could provide another dimension to an attack that continues to seek greater firepower in the final third.
