The future of Victor Osimhen remains one of the hottest topics of the summer transfer window. In recent hours, it's been reported that SSC Napoli has turned down an initial offer from Galatasaray to sign the Nigerian striker. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Turkish club submitted a €60 million bid, which was immediately rejected by the Italian side.

Napoli, now under the guidance of Antonio Conte, has made it clear they will not part with Osimhen for less than the €75 million release clause stated in his contract. Although the proposal was declined, this first move opens the door to further negotiations between both clubs, who already have a good relationship following the striker's successful loan spell last season.

Osimhen not in Conte’s plans

Selling Osimhen is not just an option for Napoli—it’s a necessity. From a sporting standpoint, the striker is not in Conte’s plans, as the Italian coach is relying on Romelu Lukaku as his main forward and favors Darwin Núñez as a backup option.

From a financial perspective, keeping Osimhen is increasingly unviable. If he remains at the club, he would earn €24 million net next season, due to a clause negotiated during his last contract extension. Aurelio De Laurentiis, Napoli’s president, is unwilling to pay such a figure—especially for a player deemed surplus to requirements. Moreover, with the Nigerian's contract expiring in 2026, this transfer window represents a key moment to cash in before he potentially leaves for free.

Galatasaray pushing and may increase their bid

On the Turkish side, Galatasaray is determined to keep the top scorer of the 2024/25 Süper Lig. Osimhen netted 26 goals and provided 5 assists in 30 matches, playing a crucial role in the club’s 25th league title. Reports suggest the club has offered him a €16 million annual salary to convince him to return to Istanbul.

The 26-year-old striker feels comfortable in Turkey, both on and off the pitch, and is reportedly keen to avoid returning to Napoli’s training camp, which is set to begin on July 15. In the meantime, Galatasaray is preparing a new bid, potentially including staggered payments.

The coming days could be decisive for Osimhen’s future, which appears to be increasingly distant from the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.