Future Options Open For Victor Osimhen Following Napoli Squad Exclusion

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Victor Osimhen's future remains uncertain as Napoli director Giovanni Manna confirms multiple options are still available for the striker. Osimhen, who was linked with Chelsea and Al-Ahli, failed to secure a transfer and has been excluded from Napoli's Serie A squad.

Osimhen was reportedly close to joining Chelsea or Al-Ahli during the recent transfer window. However, Chelsea did not meet his wage demands, and Osimhen declined a move to Saudi Arabia, leading Al-Ahli to sign Ivan Toney instead.

The Nigerian forward, who netted 26 goals in Napoli's 2022-23 Scudetto-winning season, now faces an uncertain few months. With Romelu Lukaku taking his place and number nine shirt, Osimhen must wait until January unless another solution is found.

Manna explained the situation to DAZN: "Victor expressed his absolute desire to not stay at, or play for, Napoli. We tried to make him happy. Then there was a demand and an offer, and we thought we had concluded negotiations, but then it didn't go through."

Manna added that while the transfer market remains open in some countries, he does not believe Osimhen will move to Saudi Arabia. "He expressed his desire to no longer play for Napoli and so we made other choices," Manna stated.

Conte's Stance on Squad Selection

After Napoli's 2-1 victory over Parma, secured by stoppage-time goals from Lukaku and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, Antonio Conte confirmed that Osimhen is not part of his plans. "No player will be reintegrated. Those who are out of the project will remain out of the project," Conte said.

Conte emphasised that the team has made its choices and is working together in one direction. This leaves Osimhen sidelined until further notice.

The situation highlights the complexities of football transfers and squad management. As January approaches, all eyes will be on Napoli and Osimhen to see if a resolution can be reached.