Napoli reject first official bid for Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen amid Arsenal and Man United link

Napoli have turned down an initial €65 million bid from Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen, with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis insisting the striker will not leave for less than his €75 million release clause, Soccernet.ng reports.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Turkish champions submitted their first official offer for Osimhen, hoping to secure his permanent transfer before the January window closes.

However, Napoli rejected the proposal outright, maintaining their stance that the Nigerian forward will only be sold for the full value of his clause.

Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray until the end of the season, has been in exceptional form, scoring at a rate of nearly one goal per game in the Turkish Süper Lig. His performances have convinced Galatasaray to push for a permanent move, but their opening bid fell €10 million short of Napoli’s asking price.

The report highlights the intricacies of Osimhen’s contract. The release clause for the former Lille ace was officially set at €130 million but it was renegotiated last summer when he signed a new deal before moving to Turkey on loan.

The new terms allow Galatasaray an exclusive opportunity to sign him for €75 million in January — €6 million less than what any other club would need to pay if they try to sign him mid-season.

For clubs outside of Galatasaray, Osimhen’s release clause in January is set at €81 million.

However, from the summer, the clause drops to a uniform €75 million for all potential suitors. Napoli are in no rush to sell, especially with Osimhen continuing to perform at a high level.

De Laurentiis is prepared to wait until the summer, expecting greater interest and potentially more lucrative offers for the Nigerian international.

English Premier League giants Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United remain big admirers of Osimhen.

Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel has been leading the Blues’ charge to convince Osimhen to prioritise a move to Stamford Bridge.

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has also called on the Old Trafford landlords to push for Osimhen’s signature this winter.

Arsenal icon Robert Pires has also advised manager Mikel Arteta to sign the Super Eagles striker to boost the Gunners’ title ambitions.