According to Friday’s European transfer gossip, Liverpool already have a ‘deal’ with Napoli to acquire a 103-goal striker desired by a slew of major clubs throughout Europe, while Manchester City has joined the race to recruit an Atalanta defensive star.

LIVERPOOL WILL WIN THE OSIMHEN RACE

Following rumors on Friday, Liverpool’s chances of signing one of Europe’s most prolific attackers appear to have taken a significant step ahead.

The Reds are one among many clubs interested in Napoli forward Victor Osimhen, who has 103 goals in 201 club appearances and 20 goals in 27 Nigerian appearances.

He is widely regarded as one of the top strikers in the world, having led Napoli to their first Serie A title in 30 years with 31 goals last season.

Osimhen’s current deal expires in 2025, and Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has hinted that he would reconsider signing a new one.

According to Italian journalist Valter De Maggio, as related by Area Napoli, Liverpool are the reason for the 24-year-old’s change of heart.

De Maggio believes that due of the Reds’ interest, both the 24-year-old and his agent, Roberto Calenda, have decided against signing an extension with the Naples club.

He goes on to say that Liverpool have reached an agreement with the player and that a contract with the Serie A champions must be reached before the transfer can take place.

“The parties had reached an agreement for the renewal, but Calenda and Osimhen broke their promise.” What occurred? Another club from the Premier League was added. “I’m referring to Liverpool,” he explained.

“There would be frequent contacts, but I just learned something else: agreements would already be in place.” Let me clarify: the agreements would be between the Reds and the player, thus Napoli would not be involved. We can only hope that Laurentiis will be able to maintain Victor Osimhen until June.”

Following the current contract revelations, the price of osimhen is expected to fall.

At this point, the Italian media has failed to back up De Maggio’s assertions concerning Liverpool.

However, if this is right, Liverpool may have created a wonderful piece of work.

Osimhen will not be cheap, with clubs quoting £150 million for him during the summer. However, if it is evident that he has no intention of signing a new Napoli contract, that number will fall.

The Reds will still have to pay more than £100 million. However, for a striker of that age and with that kind of track record in one of Europe’s top leagues, it may be a no-brainer deal.