By Mustapha Habeeb
August 25th, 2024
Victor Osimhen’s prospects for a transfer have become increasingly uncertain after Napoli agreed to a €30m deal with Chelsea for Romelu Lukaku.
The move light-on doubt of Osimhen’s possible extension with Napoli, as the club had considered keeping him for another season due to the €130m release clause hindering his transfer to other suitors.
Lukaku’s presence at Napoli, Influenced by Antonio Conte, has further blurred Osimhen’s situation.
Despite his impressive performance last two seasons, Osimhen’s future is now unclear with only seven days left in the transfer window.
PSG and Manchester United had expressed interest, but PSG backed down and Manchester United never made an offer.
Chelsea is currently showing interest but the negotiations is not complying as they prefers a loan deal.
Arsenal, too, had considered Osimhen but thier boss arteta ruled out a move saying “We have some great strikers. Gabi (Gabriel) Jesus is there, Kai (Havertz) has played there a lot of minutes, Leo (Leandro Trossard) has played there, and we believe we have all the necessities as well. We fully trust our players. We want to get better for sure, and we will try, but we are going to try with the players that are already with us,” the Spaniard said as per goal.com.
With his Napoli departure likely, Osimhen may consider Saudi Pro League clubs Al Qadsiah, Al Ahli, and Al Hilal, who had previously made an offer. Napoli’s desperation to replace Osimhen led them to sign Lukaku for €30m, a departure from their usual transfer strategy.