da cassino： Napoli are reportedly yet to receive an offer for Victor Osimhen but the Italian side cannot afford to keep him, either.
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Napoli vying for Osimhen's suitorsSteep release clause a stumbling blockStriker hopes for Premier League offerWHAT HAPPENED?
As the transfer window heats up, one name that continues to dominate headlines is that of Osimhen. However, the Nigerian striker finds himself at an unusual crossroads. According to Napoli have yet to receive any concrete offers for him, which has placed the Italian club in a precarious position as they are struggling to keep up with his high wages.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
When Osimhen signed his contract renewal, which included a substantial release clause of €120 million (£101m/$129m), it was widely assumed that his departure from Napoli was imminent. Despite the high valuation, it was expected that the Premier League clubs would queue up for Osimhen. Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea were all rumoured to be potential destinations for Osimhen, yet none have made a formal offer. Additionally, there has been no interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, which have been active in the market for other high-profile players – leaving both the player and the club in a state of uncertainty.
DID YOU KNOW?
Keeping Osimhen on the roster without transferring him imposes a significant financial burden on Napoli. His annual salary, reported to be around €10m (£9m/$11m), is a substantial strain on the club's wage bill and club president Aurelio De Laurentiis has recognised the need to offload Osimhen to reduce expenses. De Laurentiis, initially adamant about receiving the full amount of Osimhen's release clause, is now contemplating a reduction in the asking price. This strategic shift is necessary to attract buyers and alleviate the club's financial burden. The reduced fee is seen as a pragmatic approach to ensuring a deal can be struck, even if it means not reaching the originally anticipated financial target.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
While Osimhen remains a crucial player for Napoli, his ambition to play in the Premier League might remain unfulfilled. Napoli coach Antonio Conte is allegedly aware that he cannot keep counting on Osimhen for the entire season and is already considering potential replacements. The dream target is Romelu Lukaku, though his acquisition would be challenging as Chelsea remain firm on their price tag of £38 million ($48m). Another option being considered is Artem Dovbyk, who presents a more feasible target for Napoli.