Victor Osimhen's recent transfer saga has taken another unexpected turn, as reports indicate the Nigerian striker has rebuffed Manchester United's attempts to secure his services, prompting outrage from Napoli's management. According to La Repubblica, Osimhen, who had recently joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli, expressed his desire to remain with the Turkish club, dashing Napoli's hopes of regaining their star player.
This twist emerges after Osimhen had signed a new contract with Napoli back in December 2023 with the intention of parting ways half a year later for his hefty €120 million release clause. Unfortunately for Napoli, no clubs ventured close to meeting this figure, which led to whispers of negotiations with Chelsea and teams from the Saudi Pro League collapsing on transfer deadline day.
Initially, Napoli had high hopes for Osimhen's return to form during his loan stint at Galatasaray, with the aim of triggering offers for his €81 million release clause. Yet, news broke recently confirming Manchester United's proactive approach to bring him back to Serie A. The inquiry, which was anticipated by Napoli, was squashed almost immediately when Osimhen turned down the opportunity.
"I want to stay at Galatasaray until the end of the season," he reportedly stated when approached by Napoli’s director Giovanni Manna. This declaration has left Napoli's President Aurelio De Laurentiis feeling frustrated and disappointed, as it seems Osimhen's refusal has made the situation for Napoli even more complex.
De Laurentiis's ire stems from Osimhen's decision, perceived as another attempt to complicate his standing at Napoli. This situation has attracted attention amid discussions around Marcus Rashford's potential departure from Manchester United, which has been tied to speculation about player swaps involving Napoli. Recent reports indicate Manchester United contemplated trading Rashford for Osimhen, which, considering Osimhen's latest refusal, appears futile.
TEAMtalk sources note Manchester United is now more interested in pursuing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, another star player for Napoli, heightening the tension between players and clubs. Negotiations between Napoli and Kvaratskhelia are reportedly fraught, with both sides unable to reach amicable conclusions on contract terms and potential release clauses.
While Osimhen's commitment to Galatasaray reinforces his desire to prove himself there, the backdrop of Rashford's uncertain future at Manchester United creates ripple effects across clubs. With United considering alternatives, the dynamics of transfer negotiations could pivot dramatically as the January transfer window progresses.
The situation continues to evolve, with it remaining uncertain whether Osimhen’s performance will entice clubs to meet his release clause later or if Napoli's attempts to reinstate him will bear any fruit. Regardless, the footballing community watches closely as these high-stakes negotiations showcase the often tumultuous relationships between players, clubs, and agents.
This transfer episode serves as yet another reminder of the unpredictability of the football market, leaving many to ponder: what lies next for Osimhen and Napoli? With transfer windows looming and player value increasingly under scrutiny, any decision could significantly alter the trajectories of these clubs.