Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has declared that Arsenal must sign Victor Osimhen to overturn Manchester City’s dominance in the Premier League title race. Speaking on the Dressing Room podcast, the pundit warned that the Gunners’ lack of a recognised centre-forward will prove decisive unless they act in the transfer market.
“I’m going to put an asterisk on this,” Cole said. “I think Manchester City win the title if they [Arsenal] don’t bring in a number nine because I still think that will be a problem for them. Therefore, I am predicting Manchester City to clinch the league ahead of Arsenal, but if they sign Victor Osimhen, I would change my prediction. As it stands, my choice is Manchester City.”
Cole’s assessment highlights a persistent vulnerability in Mikel Arteta’s squad. Despite mounting a strong challenge over the past two seasons, Arsenal have relied on Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus to lead the line, neither of whom is a natural goalscorer in the mould of Erling Haaland. The former England international believes Osimhen’s profile — physical, clinical, and proven at the highest level — would bridge that gap.
The Nigerian striker, who turns 28 in December, established his elite credentials by firing Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years during the 2022-23 campaign. His form earned a high-profile loan move to Galatasaray, where he has continued to demonstrate his finishing ability in the Süper Lig and European competition. Osimhen remains under contract with Napoli until 2029, though his temporary spell in Istanbul has done little to dampen interest from England’s leading clubs.
Arsenal’s hierarchy is understood to be exploring options to strengthen their attack, with Osimhen frequently linked alongside alternatives such as Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko. However, any deal for the African Footballer of the Year would require complex negotiations involving his parent club and a significant financial outlay.
For now, City remain the benchmark. Pep Guardiola’s side have secured four consecutive league titles, anchored by Haaland’s record-breaking scoring. Unless Arsenal address their central striking deficiency, Cole’s verdict suggests the gap will persist. The coming weeks will test whether Arteta and sporting director Edu can deliver the final piece of a puzzle that has taken them agonisingly close to the summit.
