Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has disclosed that contract negotiations with Victor Osimhen have hit a standstill, raising the possibility of the striker’s departure.
Serie A club Napoli had been engaged in discussions with the Nigerian star regarding a new contract, aiming to fend off interest from various European clubs for his services.
Although Osimhen is under contract with Napoli until 2025, potential suitors like Chelsea, Real Madrid, and certain Saudi Arabian clubs have expressed their interest, prompting Napoli’s desire to secure his long-term commitment.
Initially, Napoli clarified that their social media posts were not intended to upset their star player, despite the controversy.
However, this season witnessed a strained relationship between Napoli and Osimhen, with the club’s TikTok account posting videos that teased the forward.
In response, Osimhen’s agent threatened legal action against the club, and the player removed all references to Napoli from his Instagram account.
While Napoli initially maintained that these incidents had not disrupted their contract discussions, the situation has now taken a different turn.
De Laurentiis, during a press conference, implied that Osimhen might end up being sold, much like defender Kalidou Koulibaly.
He said at a press conference, “I have never not been calm when it comes to Osimhen, but it takes two to tango. I remain the same; if his mood has changed, then there’s not much I can do about that.
“If, after a handshake, things change, that is disappointing. We take it into account, but life goes on. We have a good rapport with him; the contract runs until 2025, so there is time. Don’t forget, I sold Koulibaly at the last minute.”
Osimhen sustained an injury while representing Nigeria on international duty, which will force him to sit out Napoli’s upcoming Serie A game against Hellas Verona.
His absence may extend to a month due to the injury.
