“Nowhere near world-class” – Ex-Gunner urges Arsenal to replace Havertz with Osimhen to boost title hopes

Former Arsenal captain William Gallas has strongly recommended that his old club target Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen as they look to strengthen their title ambitions, Soccernet.ng reports.

Gallas, who knows a thing or two about what it takes to succeed at the top level, believes that a player of Osimhen’s calibre is exactly what Arsenal need to mount a serious Premier League title challenge.

While Gallas acknowledged the efforts of Mikel Arteta in adapting Kai Havertz into a makeshift centre-forward, he expressed doubt over whether the German is truly suited to the role.

Havertz, who arrived at Arsenal from Chelsea, has been used in various attacking positions but has struggled to make a significant impact as a striker.

Speaking to Genting Casino and quoted by the Metro, Gallas said,

“Kai Havertz has never ever been the right man to take Arsenal to the Premier League title.

“Havertz is a good player, but he’s not top class. I’m sorry, but he’s nowhere near a world-class level, Arsenal need a player to replace him as striker.”

The former defender also questioned the decision that saw Osimhen, who had an outstanding spell at Napoli, join Turkish giants Galatasaray instead of a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs.

Gallas, baffled by the situation, said, “I still don’t understand why Victor Osimhen is at Galatasaray, he needs to play in the Premier League and he can play at the top level at Arsenal.”

Gallas continued: “It’s difficult to understand football sometimes, he played really well at Napoli, then made a move to Galatasaray, who are a big club but he needs to be playing at a higher level.

“Arsenal need a striker like Osimhen, the club needs to wake up, it’s obvious and simple, they need a striker.”

Osimhen has been linked with top clubs for some time, with many feeling his talent is better suited to a Premier League club like Arsenal.

The Nigeria international has been excellent on loan at Galatasaray where he has smashed eight goals and added four assists in 10 appearances across all competitions.