Napoli manager hopes Osimhen stays as EPL clubs renew interest

New Napoli manager Rudi Garcia took stock of his first few weeks at Napoli and addressed multiple transfer market-related topics while talking to various outlets from their pre-season setup.

“I want an angry team. Nobody must lose focus. I see great quality and a high level. We are happy to have Victor Osimhen with us. I don’t think there’s controversy because he’s under contract. He’s one of the greatest strikers around. It’s not easy to replace Kim Min-Jae. It’s important to sign somebody, though.”

“The president extended the contract of Giovanni Di Lorenzo, as he announced. The talks with Piotr Zielinski continue. It’s paramount to keep all our players.”

Garcia was quizzed about PSG potentially targeting Osimhen.

“I hope he stays. He’s tied to us, and everybody is serene, but you can never say never in football. I’m faithful, and he doesn’t want to leave.”

Garcia stressed the importance of signing a new defender and hailed the fans.

“We need somebody who can play on the left-hand side of a four-man defense and is worthy of joining the champions of Italy. We have some youngsters for now, plus I’ll invent something. There’s no rush, even though we hope somebody arrives. I want the supporters to be joyful all year. I have a goal in mind, but I will relay it on August 12th.”

Meanwhile, Manchester United have renewed hope in their long-term pursuit of Osimhen after it emerged that Napoli may be open to selling their star striker.

Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport understands that there has been a breakdown in talks between the Nigerian forward and his club.

Osimhen’s current deal runs until 2025, but it is now believed that the Scudetto holders will want to cash in while the 24-year-old’s stock is high.

Chelsea have also been linked with the Osimhen although it is believed that the player would favour a move to Old Trafford.