Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, has reportedly travelled to London to engage in discussions with Premier League clubs Chelsea and Manchester United over the potential summer transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen.
The visit was aimed at assessing the interest level and negotiation stance of both English clubs. Napoli have placed a €75 million release clause on Osimhen, but both Chelsea and United are reportedly seeking a reduced fee.
Meanwhile, Juventus have also entered the fray, holding preliminary talks with Osimhen’s representatives. However, tensions between Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis and Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli formerly at Napoli could complicate any deal within Italy.
Editorial
Victor Osimhen’s summer move is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing transfer sagas in European football. With Chelsea and Manchester United circling, and Juventus lurking in the background, Napoli’s star striker is spoilt for elite level suitors.
But the price tag remains a sticking point. €75 million is fair market value for a player of Osimhen’s calibre and age, especially in today’s inflated market. The fact that top clubs are already trying to bargain is no surprise yet it speaks volumes about Napoli’s strong bargaining hand.
The wildcard in all this is Juventus. Osimhen may be open to staying in Serie A, but internal politics and personal feuds particularly between De Laurentiis and Giuntoli could kill the deal before it even gains traction.
Wherever Osimhen lands, one thing is certain: he won’t be short of options. The bigger question is who will step up and meet the price without flinching?
Did You Know?
- Victor Osimhen was the Serie A top scorer in the 2022–23 season with 26 goals.
- Chelsea previously scouted Osimhen during his time at Lille but opted for other targets.
- Manchester United haven’t had a 20-goal league striker since Robin van Persie in 2012–13.
- Osimhen has a €130 million release clause for non-Italian clubs, but the reported €75 million figure suggests a more negotiable internal valuation.
