Prolific Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen remains intent on leaving Napoli this summer, despite the fast-approaching start of the 2024/25 Serie A season, Soccernet.ng reports.
With interest from top European clubs such as Chelsea, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain, Osimhen's potential transfer has become one of the most talked-about moves in this transfer window.
However, two non-negotiable conditions have emerged that could determine whether the 25-year-old departs Naples.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Osimhen has made it clear that he will not consider joining any club that seeks to reduce his current salary.
The Super Eagles star is currently the highest-paid player at Napoli (as per Capology) earning €246,538 gross per week, or €12.8 million annually, under a contract that runs until June 2026.
Given his substantial earnings, any potential suitor must be prepared to match or exceed this figure to secure his services.
This financial demand, however, is not unprecedented among the clubs eyeing Osimhen.
For example, Arsenal's Kai Havertz earns £14.56 million annually, while Chelsea's Romelu Lukaku and Raheem Sterling each take home £16.9 million per year. At PSG, Ousmane Dembélé now holds the top salary at €20 million annually following Kylian Mbappé's departure.
The second condition is Osimhen's refusal to consider a loan move. While Chelsea has reportedly explored the possibility of a loan deal, the player's agent has swiftly dismissed such rumours as “fake news.”
Despite Chelsea's ongoing interest, it remains to be seen whether they, or any other club, will be able to meet Osimhen's demands for a permanent transfer.
PSG and Arsenal have also not ruled out a move for Osimhen, while wealthy Saudi Arabian clubs are believed to be among those admiring the Nigerian forward.
However, any potential deal hinges on these two critical conditions.
