Napoli must sell Osimhen to sign new players but they unwilling to trade with Juve
Napoli are already considering new reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window, but will only be able to put in formal offers for some of their favoured targets if the club can find a buyer for Galatasaray loanee Victor Osimhen within the next few weeks, according to Osimhen is currently out on loan in the Turkish Super Lig, where he has scored six goals and provided three assists from his first eight league matches.
Napoli had attempted to sell the Nigeria international over the summer, but a permanent transfer away from the Stadio Maradona collapsed spectacularly on deadline day.
As a result, the 25-year-old ended up joining Galatasaray on loan, but he also renegotiated the terms of his contract with Napoli before moving. The new contract includes an additional year of contract to help Napoli with the sale and also includes a new €75m release clause, which will become active for a selection of ‘top’ clubs in January.
According to reports from Il Mattino, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United are the teams currently considering a move for Osimhen in January.
According to Il Mattino, Napoli would make an offer for Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu if Osimhen is sold in January. The recent Denmark international also has interest from the likes of Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester United and Inter according to recent updates.
Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior is also under consideration. Antonio Conte would reportedly like another defensive addition to strengthen his backline, and with plenty of Serie A experience, Kiwior is someone who could hit the ground running. Another option for the Partenopei is 21-year-old Empoli talent Jacopo Fazzini, who would be considered an option for the present and future of the Napoli midfield.
Juventus has emerged as a surprise contender for Osimhen’s services, with former Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli now at the helm of the Bianconeri’s transfer strategy. Giuntoli, who originally brought Osimhen to Napoli from Lille, is reportedly keen on reuniting with the striker in Turin.
The Old Lady’s interest in Osimhen stems from their potential need to revamp their attacking options. Dusan Vlahovic’s future at Juventus remains uncertain, with contract renewal talks stalling and his performances not fully convincing the club hierarchy. Should Vlahovic depart, Juventus would be in the market for a top-class striker, and Osimhen fits the bill perfectly.
According to reports from Il Mattino, Osimhen would be thrilled at the prospect of joining Juventus. The mutual admiration between the player and Giuntoli could play a crucial role in facilitating this move. However, significant hurdles remain, particularly regarding the financial aspects of the deal.
Osimhen’s release clause, set at €75 million, is only valid for foreign clubs, which means Juventus would need to negotiate directly with Napoli. Moreover, the striker’s substantial wages pose a challenge for Juventus, who are currently focused on reducing their wage bill.
While other clubs, including Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain, are also monitoring Osimhen’s situation, Juventus’ interest adds an intriguing dimension to the transfer saga. The potential return of one of Serie A’s most prolific strikers to Italian football, especially to a rival club, would undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about moves of the 2025 summer transfer window.
The Bianconeri chief brought Osimhen to Napoli from Lille for €75m in 2020.