Victor Osimhen’s potential departure from the Diego Maradona Stadium has been a major topic in the transfer market, with top European clubs vying for his signature, Soccernet.ng reports.
However, a significant stumbling block for most clubs is Osimhen’s release clause, which many are unable to meet.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), in search of a replacement for Kylian Mbappe—who moved to Real Madrid—are leading the race to lure the Nigerian to Parc des Princes.
Osimhen Agrees With PSG
Reports from the France media suggest that the Super Eagles striker has reached a personal agreement with the French giants. However, this does not guarantee his transfer from Napoli.
🚨 Victor Osimhen has reached an agreement on personal terms with PSG.
However, either Gonçalo Ramos or Randal Kolo Muani would have to be sold for him to be signed and Luis Campos has called both to say he is counting on them for next season.
(Source: @RMCSport) pic.twitter.com/l5Sb1ZkbTB
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 23, 2024
Despite the agreement, PSG is unwilling to meet his €130 million release clause, with negotiations stalling over the inclusion of Kang-in Lee in the deal, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Additionally, Osimhen is open to offers from the Saudi Pro League, with reports indicating that Al Ahli is ready to meet Napoli’s asking price for the striker.
Osimhen Wants EPL
Earlier, the Nigerian forward publicly expressed his desire to play in the Premier League, stating his plans to someday move to England.
“I will definitely play in the Premier League. But for now, I have other plans in my career that I’m looking up to. When the time comes, everyone will know,” he told SkySports.
Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal have all shown interest in the Nigerian star, especially after he was named the eighth-best player in the 2023 Ballon d’Or awards and the African Footballer of the Year for 2023.
Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has set a €130 million price tag on the Super Eagles attacker, complicating potential moves away from Naples.
This hefty fee is particularly challenging for Premier League clubs like Chelsea, who risk violating Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, as Napoli prefers a cash-only deal rather than a player-plus-cash agreement.
What Should Osimhen Do to Keep EPL Dreams Alive?
Osimhen has a few options to keep his Premier League dreams alive. Staying in Naples for another year or honouring his contract with Napoli until 2027 is one potential route.
Under new manager Antonio Conte, the 25-year-old forward could continue to excel in the upcoming season.
By remaining at Napoli, Osimhen could take a page from Mbappe’s book, potentially moving on a free transfer when his contract ends.
Alternatively, if he reaches a pre-contract agreement with an EPL club, those clubs could sell players before January or next summer to free up funds and space for Osimhen.
Over time, his market value could decrease, making a transfer more feasible than the current €130 million release clause.
Maintaining his performance at Napoli while strategically planning his future could ensure that Osimhen’s Premier League ambitions become a reality.
