The European transfer window may have slammed shut, but the drama surrounding Victor Osimhen is far from over. The Napoli striker, once one of the hottest properties on the market, finds himself in a precarious situation. After a whirlwind of speculation, failed negotiations, and a strained relationship with his current club, Osimhen's future is uncertain, with only four months until the January transfer window reopens.
Osimhen Frozen Out by Napoli
Victor Osimhen's situation at Napoli has taken a sharp turn for the worse. According to reports from Fabrizio Romano, the 25-year-old Nigerian international has been excluded from Napoli's Serie A squad list following the collapse of his proposed move to Chelsea. In a further blow, Osimhen is set to lose his No. 9 shirt, which will now be worn by Romelu Lukaku, a deadline-day signing. The relationship between Osimhen and Napoli is described as "broken," leaving the striker isolated from the first team.
Failed Transfers and Missed Opportunities
The breakdown in relations between Osimhen and Napoli comes after a series of failed transfer attempts. Despite interest from Chelsea and a significant offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, Osimhen remains in Naples. Reports indicate that Napoli accepted an €80 million offer from Al Ahli, but Osimhen was hesitant to leave European football. This hesitation opened the door for Chelsea, who intensified their interest in the striker as the transfer deadline approached. However, negotiations ultimately failed, leaving Osimhen in limbo.
The Contract Conundrum
Osimhen’s reluctance to move to Saudi Arabia was clear, but the contract offers on the table further complicated matters. Al Ahli reportedly offered Osimhen a lucrative contract worth €40 million per season for four years, complete with a release clause. However, the deal fell through when Al Ahli balked at Napoli's €85 million asking price. Chelsea, on the other hand, offered a significantly lower salary, reportedly around €4 million annually, which would only increase if the club qualified for the Champions League. This offer was far less than Osimhen’s current contract with Napoli, leading to the breakdown of negotiations.
What's Next for Osimhen?
With the European transfer window closed and his relationship with Napoli in tatters, Osimhen’s future is uncertain. While the Saudi Pro League’s transfer window remains open until September 2, no clubs have yet made a move for the striker. Osimhen’s agent has indicated that the player prefers to stay in Europe, but without viable options, he may have to reconsider a move to the Middle East. For now, Osimhen remains a Napoli player, but whether he will take to the pitch again for the Italian club is doubtful.
The Strained Relationship with Napoli
The tension between Victor Osimhen and Napoli has been building for some time. Reports suggest that the relationship deteriorated significantly after Napoli’s refusal to accept lower offers for the striker during the summer transfer window. The club’s insistence on a high transfer fee, coupled with Osimhen’s desire to leave, created a toxic environment. The decision to strip Osimhen of his No. 9 shirt and exclude him from the squad further signals the club’s intent to distance itself from the player, making a reconciliation seem highly unlikely.
Potential Impact on Osimhen's Career
Being sidelined at Napoli could have serious repercussions for Osimhen’s career. At 25, he is in the prime of his playing years, and missing regular first-team football could hinder his development and market value. The situation also poses a challenge for any potential suitors in January, who may question his fitness and form after months on the sidelines. Osimhen's predicament is a stark reminder of how quickly a player's career can stall when club relations sour, especially in a market as volatile as football.
What January Could Bring
Looking ahead to January, the transfer window will be crucial for Osimhen's future. His situation will likely attract interest from clubs across Europe, especially those in need of a proven goalscorer. However, much will depend on whether Napoli is willing to negotiate a lower transfer fee or if Osimhen is willing to compromise on his wage demands. Additionally, the Saudi Pro League could still emerge as a viable option if no European club steps forward. Regardless, Osimhen will need to navigate the next few months carefully to ensure that his career gets back on track as quickly as possible.
Victor Osimhen out of the squad (Fabrizio Romano's Instagram account)