Nigerian fans eager for a Victor Osimhen transfer move to the Premier League can find reassurance in the words of his international teammate, Frank Onyeka.
Onyeka, a rock in the centre of the park for the Super Eagles throughout the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), played every match until the final, although Nigeria lost 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast in the final.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Onyeka offered a glowing endorsement of Osimhen's character and playing style.
“No, no, no! He's too expensive!” Onyeka chuckled when asked jokingly if he'd tried to recruit Osimhen to join him at Brentford as his club definitely do not have the financial pull to sign the Nigerian striker.
While Osimhen only managed one goal during Nigeria's AFCON run, his overall impact wasn't lost on Onyeka.
The Napoli striker, valued at a staggering £100 million, is a coveted commodity.
With several Premier League clubs like Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal actively seeking attacking reinforcements this summer, the possibility of the Super Eagles marksman lining up against Onyeka in England next season is a tantalizing prospect.
Osimhen, with an eye for goal, and Onyeka always in for the tackle, will be a great view for a lot of Nigerians who are great followers of the Premier League.
Osimhen wants to win all the time
“He's a really good guy but he's someone that wants to win,” Onyeka said, describing Osimhen.
“He doesn't like to lose, even in training. He always wants to push players around him, try to encourage them. He's a fighter.”
Onyeka further emphasised his countrymen's leadership qualities: “He's always there to help the team, fight for the team. Even when the team is down he'll be the first man to push the team.
“He never gives up. For me he was one of the best players in the tournament but people don't really see what he does.”
The Nigerian midfielder's comments highlight Osimhen's strengths beyond just goalscoring.
Having witnessed Osimhen's work ethic and leadership qualities firsthand, Onyeka clearly believes his compatriot would thrive in the Premier League's high-tempo environment.
Osimhen's tenacity, coupled with his proven goalscoring ability in Serie A, could be a real asset for any club lucky enough to secure his signature.
What they can be guaranteed isn't just goals but a player who gives his all as he showed in Nigeria's colours at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Osimhen transfer fee should not be a hindrance
Looking beyond the potential transfer fee, his leadership and unwavering determination suggest he could be a transformative figure in the Premier League for any team that gets his signature
He wouldn't be the first Nigerian striker to take England by storm – the likes of Yakubu Ayegbeni, Obafemi Martins, Nwankwo Kanu and Odion Ighalo all left their mark on the league.
The Napoli striker, however, has the potential to be something different. His well-rounded skill set, combining pace, power, and a poacher's instinct, could see him challenge for the Golden Boot and propel his new club towards silverware.
Of course, the hefty price tag attached to Osimhen will undoubtedly be a major hurdle. But for a club like Arsenal with the ambition and resources to match Napoli's demands, Osimhen could be the missing piece in their quest for glory.
He has the talent, the work ethic, and the leadership qualities to succeed at the highest level. If Osimhen does make the move to England, fans can expect to see a player who embodies the fighting spirit of the Nigerian national team, just as Onyeka has done at Brentford.
The prospect of these two exciting young Nigerians lighting up the Premier League is a mouthwatering one for Super Eagles fans everywhere.
