Victor Osimhen is on the verge of signing a new contract with Napoli, which will likely dash the hopes of Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain in acquiring the striker.
According to Sky Italia, Napoli and Osimhen, represented by his agent Roberto Calenda, have made significant progress in finalizing the new contract.
However, negotiations have revolved around the release clause, with the club seeking around €200 million (£171m/$219m) while Osimhen’s representatives are pushing for a lower fee, possibly around €150 million (£128m/$164m).
The Nigerian forward’s current contract with Napoli is set to expire in 2025, and it’s believed that he will commit to at least one more season under the current deal.
Talks primarily focused on his wages and the release clause during discussions with Calenda, leading to increased optimism that Osimhen will soon sign the contract extension.
If the extension indeed materializes, it would mean Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain will have to explore alternative options as Napoli seems determined to keep hold of their prized striker.
Earlier, Calenda had dispelled reports of potential contract issues, and Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has consistently expressed confidence in retaining Osimhen despite interest from other top European clubs.
Napoli are on the verge of securing Osimhen’s signature amid interest from other clubs.
The striker was instrumental in their quest for the Scudetto last season as the 24-year-old scored 26 goals and provided four assists during the campaign.
It is undoubtedly a huge boost to their Serie A title-defence ambitions which they secured after an excruciating wait of 33 years.