By Nicholas Walter
Victor Osimhen future, at Napoli, seems to have reached a dead end, as the club makes a new major policy change in hopes of facilitating the Nigerian striker’s departure from the club latest this summer.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray, had expressed his desire to leave Napoli permanently due to various controversies, notably the “TikTok troll incident.” Following this, Napoli’s board allegedly froze him out, reinforcing the forward’s resolve to depart by the end of the season.
Sources close to the Serie A club indicate that this new policy marks an attempt by Napoli to ensure a smooth transition for Osimhen, possibly to a top European club. The Nigerian star’s Galatasaray loan arrangement sparked rumors of a potential January exit, though these claims were later denied. However, Napoli appears to be positioning for a summer transfer by making Osimhen available to Italian clubs for the first time.
Napoli’s Rule Reversal: Open to Italian Clubs
Previously, Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis was firm in his stance against transferring Osimhen to domestic rivals, specifically ruling out offers from Italian teams in an effort to prevent strengthening competitors in Serie A.
“No Italian club was listed in the clause,” explained one report, reflecting De Laurentiis’s reluctance. However, according to sources such as Ultime Calcio Napoli, De Laurentiis has now reversed this restriction, opening the door for Italian teams to submit offers for Osimhen during the upcoming transfer period.
This rule reversal aligns with Napoli’s recent assessment of Osimhen’s market value. The striker’s new release clause is reportedly set at €75 million, an amount that might attract bids from top Italian teams now that restrictions have been lifted. Juventus has already expressed interest, while AC Milan’s offer, backed by former star Zlatan Ibrahimovic, was declined over the summer.
With this amended policy, Napoli may be hoping to generate competitive bids from domestic clubs. This approach broadens Osimhen’s potential market and aligns with the club’s strategy to recoup substantial value for the Nigerian forward’s departure after his standout performances. Osimhen’s ongoing success at Galatasaray has only increased his appeal among clubs in Italy and beyond.
Osimhen’s Ongoing Impact at Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen’s temporary move to Galatasaray has been met with excitement by Turkish fans and club officials. Osimhen, known for his impressive scoring ability and athleticism, has already demonstrated his potential in Istanbul, drawing both admiration and speculation about his next move. Despite the warm reception, Galatasaray faces obstacles in making the deal permanent. Napoli’s valuation of Osimhen, combined with his personal ambitions, poses challenges for the Turkish side.
Galatasaray has reportedly considered a €50 million offer to secure Osimhen permanently, but industry sources suggest this may be an inadequate bid. Given the striker’s anticipated release clause of €75 million, a figure that aligns more closely with Napoli’s expectations, Galatasaray’s current bid would likely fall short of convincing Napoli to relinquish him entirely. As noted by Football Italia, Osimhen’s “ambition and the required financial package are beyond the Istanbul-based club.”
With European giants such as Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich all keeping a close watch on Osimhen’s situation, competition is fierce. These clubs represent some of the strongest suitors outside Italy, and they have been linked to the striker since last summer. Chelsea, for instance, reportedly had a failed attempt to acquire him earlier, while Real Madrid and Bayern Munich continue to evaluate their options. If Napoli can foster interest from both domestic and international clubs, a bidding war could ensue, further benefiting the club’s financial outlook.
This move by Napoli to welcome bids from Italy may also be viewed as an indication of Osimhen’s lasting impact on Serie A, where his performances have earned him recognition as one of the league’s top talents. It remains to be seen how Napoli’s change in transfer strategy will affect Osimhen’s path forward, but with Italian clubs now in the race, his options have certainly broadened.
Financial and Sporting Implications for Napoli
Napoli’s altered stance on allowing Osimhen to move within Italy could have significant financial and competitive implications. Not only does it introduce new options for the Nigerian forward, but it also aligns Napoli with a more flexible approach in transfer negotiations. The potential for high-value offers from Serie A teams could allow Napoli to secure a return on their investment while providing Italian clubs with an opportunity to acquire a proven Serie A performer.
Juventus and AC Milan have already shown strong interest in the Super Eagles star, and with a clearer path to negotiations, they may pursue their interest with renewed vigor.
