There is a deafening silence in the transfer market for Victor Osimhen, and it seems almost unnatural.
Just a year ago, the Nigerian forward was one of the most sought-after strikers in world football, and for good reason.
Osimhen had done the unthinkable — he guided Napoli to a Scudetto title in an era dominated by the likes of Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Juventus.
This remarkable achievement ended Napoli’s 33-year wait for a Serie A trophy, elevating Osimhen to legendary status, almost on par with the iconic Diego Maradona in the eyes of many Napoli fans.
Osimhen’s heroics were not merely symbolic; they were cemented by his relentless efforts on the pitch. The 25-year-old scored a plethora of goals, including the decisive one that clinched the Scudetto for Napoli.
Finishing as the top goalscorer in Serie A, he became the first African to achieve this milestone, outshining the feats of African greats like George Weah and Samuel Eto’o who had also graced the Italian top flight.
Unsurprisingly, awards and accolades flooded in from all directions, along with the admiration of Europe’s biggest clubs. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United were all vying for his signature. PSG, along with a few clubs from Saudi Arabia, even submitted bids.
Yet, Osimhen remained in Naples, signing a contract extension that significantly increased his salary. Crucially, this new contract included a €130 million release clause, setting the stage for a potential transfer windfall for Napoli this summer.
However, things haven’t gone according to plan. Despite the hefty release clause, there seems to be a notable lack of movement around Osimhen. The market buzz that once surrounded him has faded, and several factors appear to be at play.
For Osimhen, the Premier League remains the ultimate destination.
Yet, Chelsea, now under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, seems to have cooled their interest. The Blues have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Osimhen.
Arsenal still harbors interest, but their willingness to part with a significant fee is limited. The Gunners are not prepared to offer more than €80 million for the Nigerian forward.
Many believe Osimhen would be an excellent fit for Mikel Arteta’s project in London. However, Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres, a cheaper alternative with an impressive record of 29 goals and 10 assists in Portugal this season, also catches their eye.
Manchester United’s situation is even more complicated.
They splashed out on Rasmus Højlund last season, but with the Danish forward needing more time to settle at Old Trafford, the Red Devils are considering another striker.
Instead of committing to Osimhen, United are reportedly looking towards Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee.
Newcastle United, known admirers of Osimhen, have the financial muscle to afford him. Yet, Osimhen appears uninterested in joining a club that isn’t a serious contender for the Premier League title.
Then there’s Paris Saint Germain, the French giants with deep pockets.
With Kylian Mbappe off to Real Madrid, PSG lacks a recognized world-class centre-forward. Although they remain interested in Osimhen, they are aware of Napoli’s firm stance on the release clause and might look to negotiate some form of compensation.
As July unfolds, and with Saudi Arabia money-bags Al Hilal and Al Ahli potentially re-entering the fray, the transfer silence surrounding Osimhen might continue to linger.
The financial demands, coupled with strategic club considerations and player preferences, have created a complex transfer landscape.
Osimhen’s future, once seemingly destined for the brightest lights of European football, now hangs in a delicate balance, awaiting the next decisive move.
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