Naples doesn’t want it anymore! Total vagueness for Osimhen

Napoli have reportedly not yet received an offer for Victor Osimhen, but the Italian club cannot afford to keep him either.

As the transfer window picks up, Osimhen’s name continues to make headlines. However, the Nigerian striker finds himself at an unusual crossroads. According to Gazzetta, Napoli have yet to receive any concrete offers for him, putting the Italian club in a precarious position as they struggle to keep up with his high wages.

When Osimhen signed his contract renewal, which included a substantial €120 million release clause, everyone thought his departure from Napoli was imminent. Despite the player’s high value, Premier League clubs were expected to line up for Osimhen. Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea were all seen as potential destinations for the former Ligue 1 player, but none made a formal offer. Furthermore, clubs from Saudi Arabia, who have been active in the market for other top players, have shown no interest, leaving both the player and the club in limbo.

Too expensive for Naples

Keeping the striker in the squad without a transfer imposes a significant financial burden on Napoli. His annual salary, estimated at around €10 million, weighs heavily on the club’s wage bill. President Aurelio De Laurentiis has acknowledged the need to get rid of Osimhen to reduce expenses. De Laurentiis, who was initially determined to get the Nigerian’s full release clause, is now considering reducing the asking price. This change in strategy is necessary to attract buyers and ease the club’s financial burden. Reducing the price is seen as a pragmatic approach to ensure a deal is done, even if it means not meeting the initially planned financial target.

While Osimhen remains a vital player for Napoli, his ambition to play in the Premier League could remain unfulfilled. Antonio Conte, the Napoli coach, is said to be aware that he cannot count on the striker for the entire season and is already considering potential replacements. The dream target is Romelu Lukaku, but his acquisition would be difficult as Chelsea remain firm on their £38 million price tag. Another option being considered is Artem Dovbyk, who represents a more feasible target for Napoli.