LONDON, UK — Former Chelsea and England midfielder Joe Cole has called on Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to make a bold summer move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, describing the forward as a “perfect fit” for the Gunners.
Osimhen, currently enjoying a standout spell on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray from Serie A side Napoli, has reignited interest from top European clubs after a prolific campaign that has seen him net 29 goals and provide five assists in just 33 appearances across all competitions.
Speaking on the Dressing Room Podcast, Cole made a compelling case for Arsenal to make Osimhen their marquee signing ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season, arguing that the 26-year-old’s skill set and style of play align seamlessly with Arteta’s attacking system.
“Osimhen, I know he’s had this little strange one where he’s gone to Turkey, and he’s banging in goals, but he looks perfect for Arsenal for me,” Cole said.
“Isak, yeah, but why would he go to Arsenal now? If Newcastle could spend more, I can’t see Isak being an option. Osimhen is the one for me for Arsenal.”
Arsenal’s Longstanding Striker Search
Cole’s comments come at a time when Arsenal are widely believed to be in the market for a top-class striker, as the North London club looks to build on recent Premier League title challenges. While Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah have offered quality in flashes, Arsenal’s need for a consistent goal-scorer has remained a concern for both fans and pundits.
Arteta’s side, known for its fluid attacking play and midfield dominance, has often lacked a ruthless finisher capable of converting the array of chances they create each week. In that context, Osimhen’s goal-scoring exploits in Turkey — following an already successful run in Italy with Napoli — make him a tantalizing option.
The Osimhen Factor: Stats and Style
Osimhen’s numbers this season have been nothing short of remarkable. The Super Eagles striker has averaged nearly a goal per game under Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk, leading the Turkish Super Lig scoring charts and delivering consistent performances in the UEFA Champions League.
His powerful runs, intelligent positioning, and aerial prowess make him one of the most complete strikers in European football today. Beyond just goals, Osimhen’s work rate, physicality, and ability to link up with creative midfielders could make him the ideal spearhead in an Arsenal frontline that includes the likes of Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli.
Despite being on loan in Turkey, Osimhen remains a Napoli player, with a reported €130 million release clause. That figure reportedly cooled Arsenal’s interest last summer, but with several Premier League rivals also circling — including Chelsea and Manchester United — the Gunners may need to act swiftly and decisively if they want to secure his services.
Cole’s Experience Adds Weight to Recommendation
Joe Cole, a Premier League veteran with three league titles and a reputation for sharp tactical insight, carries significant weight in the footballing world. His endorsement of Osimhen is likely to resonate with fans and decision-makers alike.
Cole emphasized that Osimhen brings a unique blend of traits that could elevate Arsenal’s attack to a new level.
“He has presence, he has hunger, and he’s got that aggressive streak you want from a top striker. Arsenal have a lot of great players, but Osimhen could be the difference in big games,” Cole added.
What This Means for Arsenal’s Summer Plans
While Arsenal remain firmly in contention for domestic and European silverware this season, much of the focus behind the scenes has already shifted to strengthening the squad in the summer. Sporting Director Edu and manager Mikel Arteta are believed to be prioritizing a forward who can deliver goals consistently in tight matches — particularly in Europe, where Arsenal’s lack of clinical edge has cost them in the past.
Victor Osimhen fits that profile perfectly, and his reported willingness to take on a new challenge could open the door for a high-profile Premier League move. However, any potential transfer will likely depend on whether Napoli are willing to negotiate below the full €130m release clause, and whether Arsenal can match the player’s wage demands amid competition from wealthier clubs.
Nigeria’s Pride and European Star
Osimhen’s rise from the streets of Lagos to the biggest stages in Europe is well documented. After exploding onto the scene at the 2015 U-17 World Cup, where he won the Golden Boot, the forward has steadily climbed the ranks — from Wolfsburg to Lille, and then to Napoli, where he was instrumental in ending the club’s three-decade Serie A title drought in 2023.
His performances for the Nigerian national team have also kept fans back home hopeful of future continental glory. Osimhen was a key figure in Nigeria’s campaign at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and is expected to be central to their plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Looking Ahead
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Arsenal’s pursuit of a world-class striker is set to dominate headlines. Joe Cole’s recommendation adds further intrigue to a developing story that could have major implications for the Premier League title race next season.
For now, Victor Osimhen remains focused on finishing the season strongly with Galatasaray, but there’s little doubt that his next move could shape the future of whichever club he joins. Whether Arsenal will take Joe Cole’s advice remains to be seen — but if they do, it could be the move that finally completes Arteta’s project.
