Liverpool legend Steve Nicol has placed Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen in the same tier as football icons Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
Nicol, who made 343 appearances and scored 36 goals for the Reds from 1981 to 1994, won several titles during his tenure, including four Football League First Division titles, three FA Cups, one European Cup, one FA Charity Shield, and one Football League Super Cup.
With Jurgen Klopp’s impending departure, Liverpool is preparing for a significant overhaul, particularly reinforcing their attacking options.
Uncertainty looms over Mohamed Salah’s future at the club amid strong interest from Saudi Arabia, with just one year remaining on his contract. This situation raises the possibility that Liverpool may opt to sell the 31-year-old Egyptian forward.
In addition, Diogo Jota’s injury issues have made him a less reliable option, and Darwin Nunez’s inconsistencies might affect Liverpool’s competitiveness for titles.
According to Afrik-Foot, Nicol sees Osimhen, along with Mbappe and Haaland, as an ideal addition for Liverpool, expressing his hope to see the 25-year-old Nigerian international in the famous red kit.
Discussing potential reinforcements for the squad, Nicol pointed out the imminent departure of Salah and praised the club’s recent midfield acquisitions. “The fact that Salah is going to be going, whether it’s this year or next year,” Nicol said.
“Osimhen. I think Osimhen would be fantastic for Liverpool. The middle of the park, we have just signed Mac Allister and Szoboszlai. Endo has turned out to be incredible. He (Nunez) can start out wide,” he added.
Osimhen has become one of the most coveted players in Europe. The Napoli forward has attracted interest from major clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Arsenal.
After extending his contract with Napoli in December 2023, Osimhen’s agreement runs until 2026. His release clause is reportedly around €120 million.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year is expected to command an annual salary of €13 million at his next club, with a reported weekly wage of €250,000.