Napoli has clarified Victor Osimhen’s status following the failed Chelsea transfer attempt, providing a clear update on the striker’s situation.
Newsonline Nigeria reports that Victor Osimhen’s transfer from Napoli to Chelsea fell through despite his desire to leave, leaving him uncertain as the new season starts. Al-Ahli, a Saudi Arabian club, also showed interest and reached terms with Napoli. However, the deal collapsed when Napoli increased their demands by an extra €5 million (£4m/$5.5m) on top of the previously agreed €80 million (£67m/$88m) transfer fee.
The Saudi Arabian transfer window is open until September 2, giving Victor Osimhen a chance to secure a move and avoid staying at Napoli until January. However, Manna has expressed skepticism about Osimhen joining a Saudi club, despite his exclusion from the squad and being stripped of his jersey. Romelu Lukaku, who arrived from Chelsea, has taken the No.9 shirt formerly worn by Osimhen, indicating a significant change in the club’s approach.
In an interview with DAZN, Manna stated: “The situation is quite clear. Victor made it clear he did not want to remain at or play for Napoli. We attempted to accommodate him. Although we believed negotiations were finalized with a demand and offer in place, the deal fell through. Given his desire to leave Napoli, we pursued other options. The transfer market is still open in some regions, offering many possibilities, but I doubt Victor will end up in Saudi Arabia.”
Napoli’s manager, Antonio Conte, has confirmed that Victor Osimhen is no longer part of the club’s plans. After Napoli’s dramatic Serie A win over Parma, Conte emphasized: “No player will be reintegrated. Those excluded from the project will stay excluded. We have made our decisions and are moving forward together in one direction.”
Facing no immediate transfer and Napoli’s resolute decision to keep him out of the squad, Victor Osimhen is in a tough spot. The 25-year-old, previously one of the most in-demand players in European football, now faces an uncertain future until the transfer window reopens in January.
