Sign Solanke, not Osimhen, Gallas warns Arsenal Coach, Arteta

Sign Solanke, not Osimhen, Gallas warns Arsenal Coach, Arteta

Ex-Arsenal star William Gallas has warned his former side against a move for Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen this summer due to the risk of the Napoli star having a poor relationship with Gunners coach Mikel Arteta.

The Londoners are keen to acquire the services of a top-quality No. 9 at the end of the season, with several options being explored.

Osimhen is one of the top targets for the role, with Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain also keen on the Nigeria international. However, Gallas is not convinced that the 25-year-old is the missing piece of the puzzle in north London as he is fearful that the ex-Lille star could clash with Arteta.

“I think Arsenal needs one striker who is different to Gabriel Jesus. One striker who is physically better can help the team play a different style of football. Osimhen, (Ivan) Toney or (Dominic) Solanke? It’s a good question!” Gallas told Lord Ping on Tuesday.

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“It’s not just about the quality of the players but it’s if the player can have a good relationship with the manager. If you have a strong character and a strong personality, that might not suit what the manager wants.

“I’m not sure about Victor Osimhen. He has a strong character but I’m not sure if he’ll have a good relationship with Arteta. If I was Arteta, I would sign for Dominic Solanke, who is also a cheaper option than Osimhen and Toney.”

Osimhen penned a new contract with Napoli in December but a move elsewhere this summer remains firmly on the cards, with a £111m release clause inserted into the deal to ensure that his exit would have to be facilitated by the Serie A outfit.

Despite suffering injuries and going off for international duty, Osimhen has still contributed goal-wise for Napoli with 10 goals scored in 19 appearances across all competitions this season.

Sign Solanke, not Osimhen, Gallas warns Arsenal Coach, Arteta