Osimhen Absent at Napoli Training as Talks with Galatasaray Over Permanent Move Intensify
Tensions are rising between Victor Osimhen and Napoli as the Nigerian striker was notably absent from the Serie A champions’ pre-season training on Monday, July 14, amid escalating negotiations for a permanent transfer to Turkish giants Galatasaray.
The 26-year-old, who returned to top form during a sensational loan spell with Galatasaray last season, has signaled his desire to continue in Istanbul, prompting both excitement and complications as the two clubs struggle to reach a final agreement.
Napoli confirmed Osimhen’s absence from the team’s training resumption, stating he had submitted a medical certificate to excuse himself.
However, the timing of his withdrawal coincides directly with advanced transfer talks, fueling speculation that the striker is pushing for a swift resolution to his future. Osimhen, who scored an impressive 26 goals in 30 league appearances for Galatasaray, was instrumental in helping the Turkish side clinch the Super Lig title and is reportedly eager to make the move permanent.
While Galatasaray have made a formal offer for the striker, discussions have hit a stumbling block over payment terms. Napoli are demanding the full €75 million release clause in Osimhen’s contract and are holding firm on their position, insisting that any deal must come with concrete financial guarantees or significant upfront payment.
Galatasaray, though reportedly willing to match the total amount, have proposed a staggered payment structure—offering €40 million upfront and the remaining €35 million in instalments. Napoli’s leadership, under new manager Antonio Conte, has so far rejected this approach, citing concerns about financial security and the need for clarity in planning their squad rebuild.
The stalemate is not only affecting Osimhen’s preseason preparation but also complicating Napoli’s own summer transfer activity.
The club had hoped to finalize his departure in order to fund other moves, including ongoing discussions for a replacement striker. With Conte expected to reshape the squad for a title defense and Champions League campaign, uncertainty over Osimhen’s status is becoming increasingly disruptive.
Sources close to the player indicate that he is frustrated by the delay, particularly given his excellent rapport with Galatasaray fans and the club’s coaching staff. For Osimhen, who previously attracted attention from top clubs across Europe before injury setbacks, the move to Turkey provided both a revival and a renewed sense of belonging.
His strong performances, coupled with Galatasaray’s consistent push in both domestic and European competitions, appear to have convinced him that his future lies in Istanbul.
As negotiations continue behind the scenes, Galatasaray remain hopeful of reaching an agreement, but time is becoming a factor, especially with both clubs already deep into pre-season schedules. Osimhen’s absence from Napoli training underscores the urgency surrounding the deal and may pressure both sides toward a swift resolution.
Whether Napoli will soften their stance on payment structure or Galatasaray will adjust their offer remains to be seen. What is clear is that Victor Osimhen, once Napoli’s talismanic figure in attack, is now on the verge of closing a significant chapter in his career and starting a new one in Turkey—if both clubs can come to terms.
