Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has identified Victor Osimhen as the crucial addition needed for the team to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title next season.

Petit asserts that Arsenal requires a prolific striker capable of netting at least 30 goals to outpace City in the title race and believes Osimhen, the Napoli forward, fits this profile perfectly.

The Gunners fell just short of the Premier League title recently, finishing the season two points behind Manchester City.

Throughout the campaign, Arsenal lacked a recognized striker, with Bukayo Saka emerging as the top scorer with 16 league goals and 20 in all competitions.

German international Kai Havertz, often deployed in a false nine role, contributed significantly, but Petit insists that a forward of Osimhen’s caliber is essential for Arsenal to elevate their game and secure the title.

“I think Arsenal need a 30-goal striker to finally win the Premier League and that man could be Victor Osimhen, who has been amazing with Lille then Napoli,” Petit said on BoyleSports.

“His dream is to come to England and he could be brilliant here. He’s physically so strong and is an out and out number nine, so he’d be my first choice.”

The Nigerian international has already scored 17 goals, including 15 in just 24 league appearances for Napoli this season.

Although he finished as Serie A’s top scorer in the 2022-23 season, netting 26 times in the league and 31 across all competitions.

He signed a contract extension in December, which includes a release clause worth over €100m.