Napoli are reportedly upset with Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen for rejecting a potential January move to Manchester United.
The Premier League club had expressed strong interest in signing Victor Osimhen during the winter transfer window, following their challenging start to the season.
However, according to reports from “La Repubblica”, Osimhen made it clear he intends to complete the season with Galatasaray, where he is currently on loan, rather than pursue a transfer this month.
When Napoli sent Osimhen on loan to the Turkish Super Lig champions last September, they included a release clause, hoping to secure €81 million from a potential sale in January.
The striker’s decision to remain in Turkey has reportedly frustrated Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, who viewed the transfer as a crucial opportunity to reinvest in the squad.
Osimhen, 26, is said to have communicated his intentions to Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, emphasizing his desire to see out the season with Galatasaray.
De Laurentiis, interpreting this as a deliberate obstacle to the club’s plans, is reportedly losing patience with the Nigerian forward.
This situation is not new for Osimhen, as he was linked with numerous clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Al Ahly, during the 2024 summer transfer window.
Despite significant interest and offers, the striker remained with Napoli before being loaned to Galatasaray.
In the current window, Manchester United had reportedly proposed a swap deal involving Marcus Rashford for Osimhen.
However, Osimhen’s reluctance to leave Galatasaray has complicated the negotiations, leaving Napoli’s hopes of landing Rashford uncertain.
De Laurentiis has publicly voiced his frustration, reportedly telling the club’s representatives, “Then let him stay where he is. Tell Galatasaray to take Osimhen.”
While Napoli remains interested in Rashford, they may shift their focus to protecting their other star forward, Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, who is also attracting attention from Manchester United.
Despite the tension, the January transfer window could still hold surprises for Napoli, as they seek to balance their squad needs and financial goals.
KanyiDaily had reported that Manchester United is considering using its striker, Marcus Rashford, for a swap deal with Victor Osimhen.