Victor Osimhen’s future at SSC Napoli is heating up as the 2025 summer transfer window progresses. The Nigerian forward, who signed a contract extension with Napoli until 2026 including a hefty release clause reportedly between €120-130 million, is now closer than ever to a potential move away from Naples.
Massive Saudi Offer Rejected, European Clubs Lining Up
Despite receiving a staggering offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal—reportedly a €50 million per season contract with a transfer fee around €60-65 million—Osimhen has firmly rejected the move, preferring to stay in Europe and compete at the highest level. This decision keeps the door open for top European clubs, with Manchester United showing genuine interest and having done “serious work” on signing him1. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring his situation closely, with Chelsea reportedly considering a swap deal involving Romelu Lukaku to meet Napoli’s asking price.
Napoli’s Position and Transfer Deadline
Napoli’s president Aurelio De Laurentiis has been clear that the club wants to sell Osimhen if an “exorbitant” bid arrives but is also prepared to keep him if no suitable offer matches the release clause. Napoli is reportedly pushing for a transfer before the end of July 2025, with a firm deadline around July 25 to finalize any deal. If no agreement is reached, Osimhen will remain at Napoli for the 2025/26 season, although his participation in the preseason retreat at Dimaro is uncertain amid ongoing transfer talks.
Why This Transfer Matters
Osimhen has been a key figure for Napoli since his arrival in 2020, scoring 67 goals in 118 appearances and playing a crucial role in Napoli’s 2022-23 Serie A title win. His contract extension in late 2023 was designed to secure the club’s investment and avoid losing him on a free transfer in 2025, with a high release clause to deter premature sales. However, financial pressures and Osimhen’s ambitions have created a complex situation where Napoli must balance sporting goals with economic realities.
What Fans Should Expect
- Transfer fee: Napoli demands €75-85 million as the window progresses.
- Top suitors: Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, PSG, Al-Hilal and others are interested, with negotiations ongoing.
- Saudi offer: Al-Hilal’s lucrative bid rejected by Osimhen, who prefers Europe.
- Preseason status: Osimhen’s presence at Napoli’s Dimaro retreat is uncertain pending transfer resolution.
Victor Osimhen’s transfer saga is one of the most closely watched stories of the 2025 summer window. Napoli’s firm stance on his valuation, combined with Osimhen’s desire to stay in Europe, sets the stage for intense negotiations in the coming weeks. Fans should stay tuned as this high-profile transfer battle unfolds, potentially reshaping Napoli’s attack and impacting several top European clubs’ plans.
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