Osimhen transfer: PSG in shocking u-turn, Enrique to lean on in-house post-Mbappe solutions?

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The Victor Osimhen transfer saga takes a surprising turn as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) reportedly cools interest in the Nigerian striker. Initial rumors linked Osimhen to the French giants as a replacement for Kylian Mbappe's move to Real Madrid.

However, a new strategy emerges from PSG, according to L'Equipe. The newspaper claims that leaks suggesting Osimhen's arrival were a smokescreen. Manager Luis Enrique reportedly prefers promoting internal solutions like Randal Kolo Muani and Gonçalo Ramos for next season, with the possibility of Bradley Barcola playing as a false nine. 

This suggests no official contact ever transpired between PSG and Osimhen's representatives. The report highlights that PSG might even retain their current attacking line-up.

A hot commodity, regardless of the snubs

Despite the PSG snub, Osimhen remains a hot commodity. He exploded onto the scene last season, leading Napoli's Serie A title charge with a phenomenal 26-goal haul, earning him the Capocannoniere award.

Several clubs have expressed interest, including Chelsea and PSG, but both seem to be cooling their interest. Osimhen, after moving from Lille to Napoli, has scored a staggering 76 goals in 133 games, with 65 of those coming in the Serie A.

Recent developments indicate a shift in PSG's strategy. L'Equipe reports that the club has not initiated substantial talks with Osimhen and his team. This suggests the deal is losing momentum.

Are Arsenal now leading the race for Victor Osimhen's signature?

Meanwhile, Osimhen reportedly remains confident of attracting interest from Premier League clubs. A recent report suggests he anticipates a move from Arsenal in the upcoming transfer window.

While a move to Saudi Arabia is off the table for Osimhen, who prioritises staying in Europe, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano throws another curveball. Romano claims that Chelsea, despite long-term interest, haven't initiated talks with Napoli regarding Osimhen. This aligns with reports suggesting they prioritize a different striker.

What the future holds for Victor Osimhen in the wake of acrimonious end to Napoli career
Photo by Icon Sport

This setback doesn't diminish Osimhen's marketability. With a hefty £113 million release clause and Napoli owner Aurelio de Laurentiis confirming his summer departure, Osimhen's representatives can expect a flurry of activity in the coming weeks.

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Toyosi Afolayan

Toyosi Afolayan is a sports journalist who breathes life into the games we love. He loves to combine insightful analysis with historical background, creating a richer understanding of sports. Afolayan's expertise ranges from captivating narratives to live broadcasts, captivating audiences across platforms like Ojbsport, AllNigeriaSoccer, TVC Entertainment, Bounce Networks, Kwara TV, ICIR, EaglesTracker, and NFF TV. His background in History and International Studies adds depth, revealing the connections between sports, politics, and national identity.