Napoli President expresses frustration over Victor Osimhen’s transfer saga

By Monsurah Olatunji

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has voiced his growing frustration with Victor Osimhen over the stalled transfer negotiations involving the Nigerian striker.

Osimhen, currently on a season-long loan at Turkish club Galatasaray, has been at the center of intense transfer speculation, with major clubs like Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Manchester United reportedly interested in signing him.

However, despite these links, Osimhen has shown little interest in a potential move, and Napoli’s efforts to secure a transfer have so far failed to bear fruit. In particular, Manchester United’s recent proposal of a swap deal involving their out-of-favor forward Marcus Rashford has not swayed Osimhen’s stance.

Earlier in the 2023-24 season, Osimhen signed a new contract with Napoli in December, with the expectation of leaving for a hefty €120 million release clause.

However, with no clubs willing to meet that asking price, and cheaper offers from Chelsea and Saudi Arabian sides collapsing on transfer deadline day, the Super Eagles forward opted for a loan move to Galatasaray instead.

Napoli had hoped Osimhen would regain his form in Turkey and attract offers close to his €81 million release clause in January. Yet, his reluctance to entertain any transfer has left De Laurentiis visibly frustrated.

A report from La Repubblica reveals the Napoli president’s exasperation following Osimhen’s rejection of potential moves. “Then let him stay where he is. Tell Galatasaray to take Osimhen,” De Laurentiis reportedly said.

He further added that if the striker is not sold by the end of the season, his release clause will drop to €75 million.

Despite being one of the most sought-after players in the transfer market, Osimhen remains at the heart of speculation, with no deal having materialized as of yet.