Victor Osimhen who returned to Napoli after his loan at Galatasaray ended, is expected to be barred from first-team training by manager Antonio Conte.
Conte would not permit Osimhen to train with the first squad since the 26-year-old is not regarded as a long-term project for the club, according to Turkish magazine Fotomac.
According to the source, Osimhen “is preparing to return to Napoli for pre-season training after his loan contract with the Turks ended,” but upon his arrival, he will be separated from the main squad.
This comes as Ruben Amorim’s team is reportedly in “the driving seat” for the striker, with Manchester United eager to strengthen their assault before the upcoming campaign.
Osimhen has been frequently mentioned by the Red Devils as they want to bolster their attacking line.
Numerous clubs are apparently interested in signing the Nigerian international, but his future is still up in the air.
He is reportedly being pursued by Galatasaray, Juventus, and a number of English clubs, but he has not yet decided where he will go next.
According to sources, Galatasaray, one of his most persistent followers, gave him till yesterday to dedicate himself to their project.
After his incredible loan stint in Istanbul, the Turkish champions are eager to keep the striker. Divergent opinions about Osimhen’s transfer worth have made matters more difficult.
While some sources indicate that his €75 million release clause will expire later this month, others assert that if he and interested parties continue to drag out discussions into mid-July, his price will actually rise over the present asking price.
Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia made a huge offer to the striker, which he has already turned down. According to sources, the Pro League powerhouses offered a contract worth an incredible €50 million per season.
Al Hilal’s offer might total up to €160 million over three years, according to transfer market analyst Armando Areniello, who called it a “monstrous bid” that might make the difference.
“Victor Osimhen has never been so close to leaving Napoli. Al-Hilal’s latest monstrous bid could be decisive: €50m per season for the player,” Areniello said, according to ArenaNapoli.
“Negotiations are underway with the Azzurri. An agreement could be reached for a figure between €60-65m.”
Osimhen has historically stated that he would love to stay in European football, notwithstanding the Saudi interest.
With Manchester United at the top of the English club race, the Premier League has been hailed as his most likely destination.
Arsenal has not yet made a firm offer, whereas Chelsea has already had discussions with the player.
According to Valter De Maggio, Liverpool was also apparently interested in a player swap involving Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa, but Napoli turned down the Premier League winners’ initial offer for a “equal exchange.”
With 37 goals and eight assists in 41 games in all competitions, the 26-year-old played a key role in Galatasaray’s domestic double the previous season.
His achievements showed his sustained excellence at the highest level and rekindled interest from elite European teams. Medical exams are planned for July 14–15, while Napoli’s preseason is anticipated to start on July 14.
Before preparations begin at Castel Di Sangro from July 30 to August 14, training sessions are scheduled in Dimaro, Trentino Alto Adige, from July 17–27.