Controversy in Lille over Osimehn’s transfer fee

The President of Lille has sparked up controversy concerning the price of the Nigerian striker after his move to Italy two seasons ago. 

Lille President Olivier Letang has accused his predecessor Gerard Lopez of overestimating Victor Osimhen's transfer fees in the deal between Napoli and Lille.

Letang, who took over as president in 2020, replied to an earlier statement from Lopez, who said that Osimhen cost €71.3m, plus €10m as add ons.

“Initially, everyone thinks that the sale of Osimhen is 81 million euros, Letang told L'equipe. The sale of Osimhen on the transfer agreement is 68 million euros. 

The transfer of the Nigerian striker to Napoli for a club-record fee last year had been under scrutiny, but nothing concrete saw the light of day.

The 22-year-old scored 18 goals in 36 appearances in his first season at Lille, helping them to a second-place berth in the Ligue 1 two seasons ago.

His feat did not go unnoticed as Gil Azzurri swooped in for his signature in the summer of 2020. However, the former Nigeria U-17 star hasn't had a glorious time at Naples, as he has had issues with injuries and Covid-19.

But despite his struggles, he still has ten goals in 31 appearances. Osimhen will hope to prove his worth this season, despite starting on a bad note after getting sent off in Napoli's league opener against Venezia.

The Nigeria international is currently in Cape Verde with the Super Eagles of Nigeria as they prepare to face the Blue Sharks in their second game of the World Cup qualifiers.