In the high-stakes world of football transfers, Napoli has drawn a line in the sand regarding the future of Victor Osimhen. The Italian club, known for its staunch negotiating tactics, is adamant that any deal involving the Nigerian striker must meet the full £113 million release clause.
According to reports from The Evening Standard, Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is unwavering in his stance, refusing to entertain offers that fall short of the agreed-upon release clause. Despite Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen, Napoli remains resolute in their demand for the full amount.
“Chelsea are searching for a new striker, and Osimhen is among the prime candidates being considered,” the paper writes. However, Napoli’s insistence on the release clause poses a significant challenge for the London club, especially if they fail to qualify for European competition.
De Laurentiis’s acknowledgment that he “cannot stop” Osimhen from leaving underscores the complexities of the situation. While the Nigerian striker may be eager for a new challenge, Napoli’s president remains steadfast in his commitment to securing fair value for the club’s prized asset.
With Chelsea eyeing reinforcements in multiple positions, including a center-back and left-back, the prospect of meeting Napoli’s hefty asking price presents a formidable obstacle. The financial implications of such a deal loom large, particularly in the absence of European qualification.
As negotiations unfold, the fate of Osimhen hangs in the balance, with Napoli holding firm in their quest to extract maximum value for the talented striker. For Chelsea, navigating the intricacies of the transfer market may prove to be a daunting task as they seek to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season.