New Napoli manager Antonio Conte has said that the Victor Osimhen transfer situation is “a different case compared to others,” implying he will be unable to rely on the club's star striker.
The Nigeria international has been linked with a move away from the Italian club since January after emerging as a top target for some of Europe’s elite clubs, while also attracting interest from Saudi Arabia.
Osimhen’s stock has risen astronomically since he swapped Lille for Napoli in 2020. In his four years in Italy, he has developed into one of the finest forwards in the world, having led the Partenopei to the Serie A title in the 2022/23 season after scoring 31 goals in that campaign.
While the 25-year-old struggled a bit last season and was blighted by injuries, he still managed an impressive return of 17 goals and four assists in 32 matches.
Conte gives update on Victor Osimhen transfer and Napoli future
Victor Osimhen is currently back in Nigeria and was recently spotted at the wedding ceremony of music superstar Davido. However, the striker’s future continues to be a hot topic in the media with the European transfer window now officially open.
Arsenal, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli have all been mooted as clubs that are interested in signing the Nigerian, who is said to have a hefty release clause of €130 million.
Having been appointed as Napoli’s new head coach, Conte addressed speculation surrounding the Osimhen transfer in his first press conference. The Italian manager revealed that he’s aware of an agreement between Osimhen and the club and described the striker’s situation as peculiar.
“I’m aware of his situation, I know there’s an agreement with the club so it’s a different case compared to others. There’s a pact between Victor and Napoli on his future and I accepted that,” Conte said, as quoted by Tribuna.
Meanwhile, reports suggest Napoli are ready to lower their asking price for Osimhen in a bid to generate funds to support Conte's rebuilding plans ahead of the next season.
