Latest Developments
- Nottingham Forest eyeing an ambitious Victor Osimhen swoop.
- Forest owner willing to spend to build upon this season's success.
- Napoli striker has a release clause in his contract.
Whisper+ Analysis
Authenticity (2/5): Forest join Osimhen race
Forest are said to be interested in signing Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, who is on loan at Galatasaray, when the transfer market opens for business this summer.
That is according to TEAMtalk, who offer little information about their sources as they claim that Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is keen to splash the cash to build upon a successful season.
Value (4/5): Release clause in Napoli deal
Osimhen is understood to have a release clause worth €75million (£63m). While that is still a sizeable fee, it is around half of what Napoli were demanding for his signature last summer. As a result, the release clause could prove to be value for money considering Osimhen is one of the most prolific strikers on the market.
Suitability (4/5): Proven goalscorer
Whether it be in Serie A or the Turkish Super Lig, Osimhen has managed to showcase his clinical nature in front of goal. The Nigeria international scored 48 goals across 71 competitive matches in his last two seasons with Napoli, while he has racked up 26 goals in 30 matches during his current loan spell with Galatasaray.
The Premier League may represent a different challenge, but Osimhen would surely have no issues in carrying his goalscoring form into the English top flight.
Upgrade (4/5): Wood to drop down pecking order
As it stands, Chris Wood is Forest's undisputed first-choice striker, having racked up 18 goals in 29 Premier League appearances this season, helping put Nuno Espirito Santo's side into third place in the standings.
While Wood has been a standout performer this term, Osimhen is at least a step higher than the New Zealand international, with the Napoli loanee regarded as an elite-level striker. As a result, Wood would likely have to settle for a bench role if Forest managed to pull off a move for Osimhen.
Logic (1.5/5): Bigger clubs will be more appealing
Osimhen is widely expected to leave Napoli this summer, with the Premier League mooted as one of his potential destinations. However, Forest may struggle to convince him to come to the City Ground even if they secure Champions League qualification.
The 26-year-old is likely to have his heart set on joining a top club that are expected to compete for silverware season after season. Arsenal are among those who have been linked with a potential move. Chelsea and French giants Paris Saint-Germain are also among his suitors, while Manchester United have been credited with an interest, although their hopes could rest on whether they can secure Champions League qualification by winning the Europa League.
Whisper+ Verdict: 15.5/25
From Forest's perspective, it would represent a significant coup if they were able to land someone of Osimhen's calibre. However, it seems difficult to see how they will win the race amid intense competition from a number of top clubs.
