It has been one of the signing sagas of the summer, but here we are in the last week of the window and Victor Osimhen is still a Napoli player.
The Nigerian hitman is believed to have long been coveted by Chelsea, although a prohibitive €130m release clause appears to be what has held up any deal.
While the player still knows where the target is, his form since the epic Scudetto del Partnopei winning season has dipped a bit, and that could explain the reluctance of the Blues or anyone else not to progress and meet your player’s Serie A rating.
In recent days, CaughtOffside columnist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli have agreed a deal for the player with Napoli… for 65 million of euros
??? Learn more about Victor Osimhen’s story.
The deal between Napoli and Al Ahli for a package in excess of 65 million euros is almost complete, pending small details.
But NO deal with Osimhen so far as the Nigerian striker wants a big salary + KEY DETAILS: Release clause included. pic.twitter.com/Z9vnSTdIEE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 25, 2024
That’s half of what the club were initially asking for, but perhaps shows their concern that Osimhen is still on their books after the deadline, especially as Napoli also appear to be close to signing Chelsea’s Romelu Lukaku, a favorite of Antonio Conte.
With just three days left until the window closes, it is now a race against time to get Osimhen away from the club, but above all, it seems the player has no interest in going to the Saudi Pro League.
In fact, how i (subscription required), the striker prefers a move to Stamford Bridge and is waiting for the two clubs to agree a deal so he and his representatives can also start negotiations.
It is clear that all parties will have to work hard and fast if they are to reach a deal, and if it turns out to be too late, Osimhen will face the prospect of either going to Saudi Arabia or playing second fiddle to Lukaku, neither . of which it is likely to resort.
