Liverpool Have ‘Held Talks’ Over Move to Sign £63m Serie A Striker – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing Victor Osimhen as Summer Plans Gather Pace

Liverpool’s Premier League triumph under Arne Slot was a statement. Not just about winning, but about building a new era post-Klopp. With the summer window now in full swing, transfer activity is already intensifying and TBR Football has reported that the Reds have held talks with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.

The 26-year-old Nigeria international spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, where he scored a staggering 37 goals and registered 8 assists in 41 games. Described by Gianfranco Zola as “a complete player”, Osimhen is one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe this summer.

But Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit. Manchester United are also keen, yet the Premier League champions might just have the edge.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s Summer Ambition Signals Serious Intent

Liverpool are not pausing to celebrate their title win. Slot and new sporting director Richard Hughes have already secured Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen and are actively pursuing further reinforcements, including Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Bayer’s Florian Wirtz.

However, the need for a true No. 9 has remained a priority. According to TBR Football, “Liverpool ‘held talks with Osimhen’s camp last month’,” a clear sign of intent from the Anfield hierarchy.

Napoli are reportedly ready to sell and the £63 million release clause makes the deal relatively straightforward from a valuation standpoint. But it’s Osimhen’s wage demands that present a significant hurdle. “GiveMeSport reported last month that Osimhen wants as much as £400,000 per week as salary at his next club.”

Why Osimhen Fits Liverpool’s System

Under Slot, Liverpool’s attacking play has shifted towards a more direct and structured shape, and Osimhen could be the final piece in that puzzle. His strength, movement and lethal finishing would offer a consistent goal threat, while also helping stretch defences, creating more room for the likes of Salah, Diaz and Szoboszlai.

At Galatasaray, Osimhen proved he can thrive under pressure, helping them to a domestic double. That pedigree, alongside his physical profile and tactical intelligence, makes him tailor-made for the Premier League. The Nigerian striker is not only prolific but also disciplined, offering more than just goals.

Photo: IMAGO

Man United also Interested

TBR Football also reports that Manchester United “held talks with the 26-year-old striker’s camp last month.” United remain in the market for a proven forward and have also contacted Sporting CP over Viktor Gyokeres. But United’s lack of Champions League football and relative instability may tip the scales in Liverpool’s favour.

As TBR notes, “Liverpool… are the Premier League champions and will not only play in the Champions League next season, but they will also aim to win it.” That kind of ambition is likely to appeal to a player of Osimhen’s calibre.

Financial Challenge May Decide Outcome

While Osimhen’s release clause is palatable, his wage demands push the limits of Liverpool’s traditional pay structure. The £400,000-per-week request exceeds even Mohamed Salah’s current terms and may require compromise from both parties. However, if Liverpool believe Osimhen is the missing link in their squad, they may choose to flex financially.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s point of view, this feels like a defining moment in the Slot era. After a triumphant title-winning season, adding someone of Victor Osimhen’s calibre could be the type of elite move that sets the tone for a dynasty rather than a one-off success.

Osimhen is not just a goalscorer, he’s a tone-setter. Watching him bulldoze through defences in Turkey and lead the line with authority reminds many supporters of peak Suarez or Torres. With Darwin Núñez still struggling for consistency, and Diogo Jota prone to injuries, this move just makes sense.

That said, the £400,000-per-week salary raises eyebrows. It goes against the FSG model. But with the likes of United sniffing around, it may be time to adapt. Titles are won on the pitch, not on the balance sheet. Fans will hope the club sees this as a rare opportunity to add a world-class forward who is entering his peak years.

The fact that he has reportedly turned down Saudi riches to chase Premier League and Champions League dreams is a huge positive. It shows he’s hungry. And Liverpool need players who want to fight, not just collect a cheque.

If Hughes and Slot can pull this off, it would be one of the signings of the summer.