Eddie Howe refusing to give up on Victor Osimhen despite huge obstacle to Newcastle pursuit

Reports claim Newcastle have not given up hope of signing Napoli star Victor Osimhen despite his insistence on playing for a club in the Champions League.

It was widely reported in January that the Magpies had their eyes on the 23-year-old hitman. But they were not the only suitors, with Arsenal also said to hold an interest. Nothing happened in the winter window as the Nigeria international stayed to bag 18 goals in all competitions for the Italians.

The former Lille ace now has 24 from 51 Serie A outings and is clearly a player in demand. Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal are all thought to be monitoring his situation in Naples.

But Newcastle’s financial status means they are now in a position to challenge the big boys for top players. Gazzetta dello Sport suggested earlier in the week that the Tynesiders would return with a fresh bid.

And the same publication now say that Newcastle have ‘made it clear’ they would be willing to submit a ‘significant sum’ for the player.

Eddie Howe is looking for a striker with the X-factor after a more conservative approach in January. He brought in Chris Wood from Burnley, who scored two goals during the north-east side’s rise up the table.

The New Zealand international is a no-nonsense target man but not someone who will break the 20-goal per season barrier.

Newcastle have been linked with numerous players this summer. That is not surprising given their Saudi-backed wealth. They could be challenging for honours in a few years time if all goes to plan.

But there will be no European football on offer at St James’ Park in 2022-2023. And that is said to be the main obstacle to completing a deal for Osimhen.

Gazzetta dello Sport add that the former Wolfsburg player is ‘unconvinced’