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By Our Reporter
Napoli director Mauro Meluso has confirmed that Victor Osimhen is available for transfer in January, provided the price is right.
Osimhen expressed his desire to leave Napoli at the end of last season, leading to significant speculation over the summer, with interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Al-Ahli. Chelsea even sent a delegation to Naples to negotiate a deal, but the transfer fell through before the deadline.
Afterward, Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan, where he has quickly made an impact, scoring two goals and providing two assists in his first three Super Lig matches. However, reports suggest that Osimhen could be on the move again this winter, with the Nigeria international still keen on a transfer to Chelsea.
His €130 million (£109 million) release clause became inactive after his loan to Galatasaray, meaning he will be available for €81 million (£68 million) in January.
Meluso stated, “He no longer wanted to be part of the first team,” during the Palermo Football Conference. He noted that Osimhen had received a significant offer prior to Meluso’s arrival, but Napoli chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis opted to reject it for the club’s benefit.
Osimhen extended his contract with Napoli until 2027 before his loan, reflecting the club’s intention to protect their asset. If Chelsea activates his £68 million buyout clause, Napoli would receive £63 million, while Galatasaray would take £5 million.
Meluso described Osimhen’s loan to Galatasaray as a “last-minute solution” to ensure he didn’t miss the start of the season, adding, “We will see in January.”
*With Metro Sports.