Napoli manager Antonio Conte has confirmed that Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is no longer part of the club’s plans, leaving the 25-year-old in limbo after a failed transfer window. Despite being one of the most coveted strikers in Europe, with interest from top clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, PSG, and Manchester United, Osimhen’s anticipated move fell through, leaving his future at Napoli uncertain.
Osimhen had been pushing for an exit from Napoli, with Chelsea emerging as the most likely destination. However, the deal collapsed as the transfer window closed on Friday, compounded by a last-minute hitch involving Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli. The Saudi club had reportedly agreed to an €80 million transfer fee with Napoli, but negotiations broke down when Napoli demanded an additional €5 million, stalling the move.
Speaking after Napoli’s match on Saturday, Conte made it clear that Osimhen and other players not in the first team would not be reintegrated into the squad. “Some issues blocked it; perhaps if we had unlocked that situation, we would have completed the team differently and earlier,” Conte said, expressing his regret over the situation. He added that the club had remained consistent in its stance, even at the cost of significant financial loss.
With the 2024/25 season already underway, Osimhen’s exclusion from Napoli’s plans puts him in a difficult position. As one of the top strikers in European football, his career now faces an uncertain chapter, at least until January when the transfer window reopens. However, with the Saudi Arabian transfer window still open until September 2 and the Turkish Super Lig window until September 13, there remains a slim chance for Osimhen to secure a move and avoid being sidelined at Napoli for the next few months.
Conte emphasized the importance of consistency in his decisions, noting that the club’s refusal to reintegrate Osimhen was a matter of principle. “We made decisions… The president proved consistent despite losing important money—credit where credit is due,” Conte stated, reiterating that Napoli’s focus is now on rebuilding with the players who are fully committed to the club.
As the transfer saga continues, all eyes are on Osimhen to see if a last-minute deal can be struck, or if he will be forced to remain at Napoli until the next transfer window.
