Former Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte, has emerged as a leading candidate for the Napoli job following Francisco Calzona’s imminent departure at the end of the season, Soccernet.ng reports.
Victor Osimhen has been the subject of transfer speculation away from Napoli, with Paris Saint Germain reportedly ready to activate his release clause of €130 million, while Chelsea and Manchester United are also eyeing a striker.
Conte’s rumoured interest in Napoli has raised questions about the potential effect on Osimhen’s transfer from the Diego Maradona Stadium.
Napoli has experienced managerial instability since Luciano Spalletti’s departure after winning the 2022-23 Serie A title, leading to a club restructuring under Aurelio De Laurentis.
Amidst the upheaval, reports suggest that Conte, currently a free agent after leaving Tottenham Hotspur, is considering a return to Italy with Napoli, with rumours even indicating he’s house-hunting in Naples.
Will Conte’s Appointment Impact Osimhen’s Future?
Osimhen has expressed a desire to play in the Premier League and win the Champions League, fueling speculation about his potential departure from Napoli after four years, during which he has won the Serie A title and the African Best Player award.
Conte’s preference for a key striker might prompt him to persuade Osimhen to stay, but a significant €130 million bid could sway Napoli’s management.
Should PSG or another club meet Osimhen’s release clause, he’s likely to depart regardless of the new manager’s arrival, paving the way for Napoli to pursue a striker aligning with Conte’s vision for the 2024-25 campaign.
