By Seyi Babalola
Liverpool have joined the race for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, sending scouts to monitor the Napoli player over the international break.
Osimhen was linked with a summer transfer away from Naples after an outstanding 2022/23 season with the Italian club.
The Nigerian international scored 26 goals in 32 league games to help Napoli win the Serie A title for the first time in 33 years.
Despite remaining with the Italian champions, Osimhen’s future remains unknown following a social media incident in which he was ridiculed by the club’s TikTok account.
The likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with Osimhen, and it now appears that Liverpool are also interested in securing his signature.
According to British publication, The Sun, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp sent one of the club’s scouts to watch Osimhen in action for Nigeria.
A Liverpool scout saw Osimhen play 59 minutes in Friday’s 2-2 draw with Saudi Arabia before he was forced off with a hamstring injury.
Liverpool appear to be compiling a list of prospective forward targets in preparation for Mohamed Salah’s likely exit in 2024. During the summer transfer window, Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad made a £150 million approach for the Egypt international.
While Liverpool managed to maintain one of their most valuable assets, there is speculation that the Saudi Pro League will be interested again next year.
If they decide to pursue a move for Osimhen, a price in excess of £100 million may be required to entice him away from Napoli.
The Italian club is still hoping to extend the Nigerian’s contract, which is now set to expire in the summer of 2025.
