“Ludicrous” – Victor Osimhen’s representative clears air on suspension controversy, Newcastle United transfer links

The Nigerian international is constantly in the news for the wrong and right seasons, but it has not stopped the world’s biggest clubs from courting his services

Victor Osimhen’s representative Roberto Calenda has responded to several issues that have surrounded the Napoli striker recently.

Over the past week, Osimhen was the subject of attack from a section of the Italian media after the Nigerian returned late to Naples from the international break. The 23-year-old’s best efforts could not help the Super Eagles cross the finish line as Ghana eliminated Nigeria from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

With Osimhen suspended for Napoli’s crucial tie at Atalanta on Sunday, the former Lille ace secured approval from his club bosses to arrive late from Nigeria.

But, with the arrangement unknown to the Italian media, many fueled an unnecessary controversy pushing for Napoli to fine the striker.

But the club has made it clear that no such action would be taken against the forward, and Calenda is displeased with the media for pushing an agenda against the youngster.

“He has always shown great attachment to Napoli since day one,” Calenda told Radio Marte (via Alfredo Pedullà).

“That is a non-issue. The recent controversy was ludicrous. I do not want to waste my time on it.”

Osimhen is enjoying an excellent second season in Italy, putting together a string of match-winning displays for Napoli.

Despite absences enforced by a facial injury in November, coronavirus, and suspensions, the striker has smashed 15 goals in all competitions for Luciano Spalletti’s side.

Calenda is relieved to see Osimhen improve since his arrival from France after initial doubts about switching to Italy.

“Luciano Spalletti does help his players get better, he works a lot on the pitch, and he is very attentive to their traits,” the football agent continued.

“Osimhen is young, so he is bound to improve if he receives sound advice. We are all very happy with how things are going. Moving here was a precise choice for growth, both technical and as a man.

“Serie A is not in great shape overall, but it is very tactical and has fantastic coaches. Playing here is an important stepping stone for any foreigner.”

Osimhen may be on the move again in the summer, with several English Premier League clubs linked to the former Wolfsburg ace.

Arsenal, Tottenham, and Manchester United are interested in the forward, with Newcastle United reportedly offering €100 million for him in January. The St. James Park landlords could be back with an improved bid for the powerful attacker in July/August.

But Calenda insists his principal’s primary focus is not on the summer but on helping Napoli claim their first league win in three decades.

“He is fully focused on this season, he wants to win, and he is ready to dive on any ball, as he has already proven,” Calenda added.

“He is part of a very strong team. Then, newspapers need to be filled and sold.

“Even those that know little about football would name Osimhen if you asked them to recommend a striker. He is a Napoli player, and our attention is fully on the next seven finals.”

Napoli are not ready to lose their prized asset on the cheap, though, with Il Partenopei only willing to do business with any club able to put €120 million on the table for the Nigerian.