Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen’s future is now shrouded in uncertain after Napoli director Giovanni Manna confirmed that his transfer is “blocked” unless potential Suitors such as Chelsea, Arsenal, or PSG make a move before the August 31 deadline.
Manna who not forthcoming on discussing Osimhen’s current situation amid a possible move to Arsenal or PSG as being speculated, said: “At this time, it is not right to say what sensations there are. We are working with his entourage to find the best solution. As we said, he is an important player, so it’s not that we can just find him anywhere.”
“It’s an objective fact, what the coach said, the situation is blocked. Victor is an important player, with an important value and conditions. His desire is clear. We tried to maintain the integrity of the squad at this moment. We are not the only club in this situation and we’ll see what happens over the next 10 days,” Manna told Sky Sport Italia.
The LethalSuper Eagles striker was absent in Napoli’s 3-0 loss to Hellas Verona in their Serie A opener with reports on the team sowing they played with a weakened squad.
Reacting to the situation, Coach Antonio Conte expressed frustration, explaining that the transfer strategy was hindered by Osimhen’s unsold status.
Though the former Lille striker is still under contract with Napoli until 2027, Napoli have already identified Romelu Lukaku as Osimhen’s replacement, but Chelsea are unwilling to accept offers below €43m.
Meanwhile, Italian outlet, La Gazzetta dello Sport, has strongly criticized Napoli for their poor handling of ‘Osimhen’s transfer situation’ after the African Footballer of the Year was left of the Serie A tie against Hellas Verona despite lack of offers.
