Napoli will reportedly include Victor Osimhen in their squad for the first day of pre-season after failing to finalise an agreement over a sale so far this summer.
The Nigeria international, who spent last campaign on loan at Galatasaray after falling out with the Napoli hierarchy, is expected to secure a high-profile transfer before the start of the 2025-26 season, but he is yet to agree a move.
However, the 26-year-old rejected the chance to join Simone Inzaghi’s side before the Club World Cup and he is yet to be convinced to leave Europe for the riches of the Middle East.
Meanwhile, Liverpool and Manchester United are currently regarded as his two most likely destinations in the Premier League, although Arsenal and Chelsea have both been linked with Osimhen over the past year too.
A permanent exit is still expected to take place this summer, however Osimhen is set to return to Napoli in July, as per Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Italian publication has revealed that Osimhen is expected to be included in Napoli’s squad for the start of pre-season on Monday 15 July.
The Serie A giants will reportedly invite Osimhen to join the rest of Antonio Conte’s side for pre-season medical tests, although it remains to be seen whether he will train with the squad or separately.
Napoli target Victor Osimhen replacement
Napoli are hoping to sign Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez as Osimhen’s replacement, but Arne Slot’s side are currently asking for a fee in excess of €80m to sanction a sale and this is a major obstacle to overcome.
Udinese star Lorenzo Lucca has been identified as a cheaper alternative, although Napoli are still hoping to finalise a deal for Nunez as they look to defend their Serie A crown next season.
Football transfer news headlines today
The FootballTransfers app
Check out FootballTransfers’ new app for all of football’s big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.
The FootballTransfers app is available on Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Download here:
