Negotiations between the Nigerian forward, Lille and the Italian side have taken different turns in recent weeks, but the youngster’s former boss has sent him his words of advice
President of the Belgian Football Federation, Mehdi Bayat, has urged Victor Osimhen to sign for Napoli as the Serie A side has shown their commitment in creating an exciting sporting project for him.
Osimhen has been the subject of a multimillion euros bid from Napoli, who are pulling all the stops to ensure that the Nigerian forward arrives as a replacement for Polish ace Arkadiusz Milik, who is rumoured to be on his way out of Naples.
But several thorny issues – including but not limited to racism, the striker’s preference for the English Premier League, and a change of agents – have nearly put the deal in jeopardy.
Napoli are already reportedly looking at Real Madrid’s Jovic as an alternative. Still, Bayat wants Osimhen to take advantage of the Napoli offer, which is as beneficial to the club as it is for the player.
Bayat, who also doubles as CEO of Sporting Charleroi, was a first-hand witness of Osimhen’s prowess last term when the young forward smashed in 20 goals for the Zebras before leaving for Lille.
“Victor Osimhen is an extraordinary striker, at Charleroi he already had the characteristics of the potential champion,” Bayat told Radio Kiss Kiss, as per Corriere Dello Sport.
“I knew he would have embarked on a beautiful career, he is a boy with all the right qualities and in their place: he is a very complete striker.
“Napoli is putting an important figure on the plate to satisfy Lille’s requests. This last aspect also shows Napoli’s desire to create an interesting sporting project for Victor. Considering these elements, the sporty choice of Naples will be excellent for him.”
After joining Les Dogues for €12 million last summer, Osimhen netted 18 times in all competitions to announce his arrival to the big stage.