Victor Osimhen’s split from Napoli, often described as a “slow divorce,” continues to drag on, defying earlier expectations of a swift resolution.
When the summer transfer window opened, many anticipated Osimhen would quickly move on from Napoli. The 25-year-old striker, known for his goal-scoring prowess, seemed like a prime target for deep-pocketed clubs.
However, the anticipated flurry of activity didn’t materialize. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has asked Napoli to lower the striker’s hefty €130 million release clause. Meanwhile, Chelsea has shown interest but prefers a loan arrangement with an option to buy, a scenario both Napoli and Osimhen are wary of. Napoli fears that a loan deal would diminish Osimhen’s market value, while Osimhen would face a significant pay cut.
Currently, Osimhen is the highest-paid player in Italy, earning over €10 million annually. PSG had reportedly offered him €14 million per year before negotiations stalled.
This weekend, Napoli’s sporting director Giovanni Manna addressed the situation: “The situation is clear: Victor wants to leave. Last season, we faced a similar situation. He is a strong player, but we remain calm as we have capable replacements in the squad, such as Raspadori.”
Transfer experts suggest Osimhen could join Chelsea if he accepts a loan deal. Others speculate that PSG might make a late push for the striker, hoping Napoli will significantly reduce the release clause to finalize the transfer.
If neither Chelsea nor PSG steps up to complete the deal, Osimhen may need to consider lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs. These teams can meet Napoli’s release clause and offer him more than four times his current European salary.
Osimhen’s desire to continue playing in top European competitions, particularly the UEFA Champions League, may need to be postponed if he chooses to move to Saudi Arabia.
The situation remains fluid, and the outcome of this prolonged transfer saga is still uncertain.
