Napoli insist on Osimhen release clause, only one club willing to pay in full

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Victor Osimhen's dream of playing in the English Premier League is in limbo, with Napoli unwilling to lower the Nigeria international's release clause.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move to English giants Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal for the past few months, but none of the clubs are willing to meet the Italian club's asking price for Osimhen.

After signing a new contract in December 2023, Victor Osimhen’s release clause has increased to over €120 million.

This would make the Nigerian a record-breaking acquisition for Arsenal or Manchester United, and a substantial purchase for Chelsea, who need to offload players before making new signings this summer.

Osimhen was instrumental in Napoli's title-winning 2022/23 campaign, scoring 26 goals in the process.

In the recently concluded 2023/24 season, he bagged 17 goals across two competitions. The Super Eagles forward scored 15 times in Serie A and twice in the UEFA Champions League.

Al-Ahli ready to meet Napoli's €120m valuation for Victor Osimhen, offer €15m per year deal

According to Calcio Napoli 24, the only team willing to meet Napoli's €120 million asking price for Victor Osimhen is Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli.

Al-Ahli have reportedly offered Osimhen a lucrative deal worth €15 million per year for a three-year contract.

This move represents a significant financial offer for the Nigerian striker, who has been a standout performer for Napoli, scoring 17 goals in the recently concluded 2023/24 season across Serie A and the UEFA Champions League.

Napoli's steep valuation has deterred interest from other clubs, including Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United, who have been linked with the striker.

Victor Osimhen @ Icon Sport
Photo by Icon Sport

Osimhen's future now hinges on negotiations between Napoli and Al-Ahli, as the Saudi outfit look to secure a marquee signing ahead of the new season.

Despite Al-Ahli's interest, Osimhen remains hopeful of a move to the Premier League.

<!-- Author Start -->Godfred Budu<!-- Author End -->

Godfred Budu

Author

Godfred Budu is a Ghanaian sports journalist with over a decade of experience, offering a dynamic perspective on African football, particularly Nigerian football. A dedicated follower of Enyimba United, he has developed a deep understanding of the Nigerian football scene.