Why Premier League clubs are wary of Osimhen

Despite his prolific goal-scoring record across Europe, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is facing growing skepticism from top Premier League clubs, with concerns mounting over his temperament, wage demands, and suitability for English football.

Osimhen, 26, has been one of the most talked-about forwards in recent transfer windows, having netted 85 goals and contributed 17 assists in 112 appearances across the last three seasons with Napoli and Galatasaray.

However, a long-anticipated high-profile move to the Premier League has yet to materialize.

Sources say the Super Eagles striker was close to signing for Chelsea last summer, but negotiations collapsed over personal terms. He has also been on the radar of Arsenal and Manchester United, yet none of the clubs have taken decisive steps toward finalizing a deal.

According to British football journalist David Ornstein, who spoke on The Athletic Football Podcast, while Osimhen remains a player of interest to several English clubs, his off-field profile has raised red flags among potential suitors.

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“There’s no doubt about his ability, but some Premier League clubs are cautious due to his personality clashes with past coaches and the financial implications of his salary,” Ornstein said.

Osimhen has reportedly had high-profile disagreements with managers including Nigeria’s former coach Finidi George, as well as Napoli’s Luciano Spalletti and Rudi Garcia. These incidents have prompted questions about his adaptability and temperament in demanding environments such as the English Premier League.

Another sticking point is his salary. Osimhen currently earns around €200,000 net per week, a figure he is reportedly unwilling to reduce. Due to the UK’s higher tax rates, any club in England willing to match his take-home pay would need to offer a gross package exceeding €300,000 per week — a steep commitment even for top-tier teams.

After spending last season on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he impressed with his consistency and clinical finishing, Osimhen is now seeking a permanent move away from Napoli.

However, the combination of wage expectations, character assessments, and strategic fit is causing hesitation in the Premier League.

With the summer transfer window heating up, it remains to be seen whether any English club will take the risk on one of Africa’s most talented strikers — or whether Osimhen will be forced to explore opportunities elsewhere in Europe or the Middle East.