Victor Osimhen is not included in Napoli’s squad for tonight’s match. Osimhen desires to leave, with Napoli eyeing Romelu Lukaku as his replacement. Talks with PSG are stalled; Chelsea is interested but unwilling to meet the release clause.
- Victor Osimhen is absent from Napoli’s squad, aligning with his desire to exit the club.
- Napoli is considering Romelu Lukaku as a replacement for Osimhen.
- PSG talks are stalled, and Chelsea is interested but hesitant to meet the release clause.
Victor Osimhen: The Transfer Saga
Victor Osimhen, Napoli’s prolific centre-forward, has been conspicuously absent from the squad tonight, a move that aligns with his desire to exit the club. The 25-year-old Nigerian international has been a crucial asset for Napoli since joining from Lille OSC in 2020 for a staggering €77.50 million. Despite his impressive record of 65 goals in 108 appearances, Osimhen’s future appears elsewhere.
🚨🇳🇬 Victor Osimhen, not even on the bench for Napoli tonight as plan of both parties remains clear.
Osimhen wants to leave, Napoli want to bring in Lukaku.
Talks with PSG are in stand-by since Monday at current conditions.
Chelsea like Osimhen but won’t pay the clause. https://t.co/3I9jD5M7uK
pic.twitter.com— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano)
April 28, 2023
Osimhen has drawn interest from PSG, although talks have been on hold since Monday. Chelsea also admires the forward but balks at meeting his hefty release clause. With 35 caps and 21 goals for Nigeria, Osimhen remains a hot commodity in the transfer market.
Romelu Lukaku: The Ideal Replacement?
Romelu Lukaku, currently at Chelsea, is being eyed by Napoli as the ideal replacement for Osimhen. The 31-year-old Belgian striker has a remarkable track record and is no stranger to the Serie A, having previously played for Inter Milan. Lukaku’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain, but a move to Napoli could rejuvenate his career.
Lukaku has expressed a strong desire to reunite with his former coach, Antonio Conte, at Napoli. He is even willing to take a significant pay cut to make the move happen. However, this transfer hinges on Osimhen’s departure, making it a high-stakes game for all involved.
Broader Implications for Napoli
Napoli’s potential moves extend beyond just Osimhen and Lukaku. The club is also in advanced negotiations to strengthen their midfield, aiming to remain competitive in both Serie A and European competitions. Two new midfield talents are being eyed as part of this strategy.
- Napoli’s Strategy:
- Strengthen midfield with new talent.
- Maintain competitiveness in Serie A and Europe.
- Secure high-profile transfers to bolster the squad.
The outcome of these transfer negotiations could significantly impact Napoli’s performance in the upcoming season. Both Osimhen and Lukaku are high-profile forwards whose moves will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
For more detailed player statistics and transfer history, check Victor Osimhen’s profile on Transfermarkt and Romelu Lukaku’s profile on Transfermarkt.