Victor Osimhen once stood at the pinnacle of Europe’s transfer market—a £113 million release clause, a Serie A Golden Boot, and the talisman who returned Napoli to Scudetto glory after over three decades.
Yet two years on, the Nigerian striker finds himself in a curious limbo: scoring freely again in Turkey, but still on the outside looking in as far as the Premier League dream is concerned.
With Financial Fair Play and Profit and Sustainability Rules reshaping the transfer landscape, his representatives’ bid to maximise earnings at the peak of his powers may have backfired.
Negotiations with Chelsea last summer broke down, and interest from elite clubs cooled amid his injury-hit season.
A surprise move to Galatasaray revived his form—31 goals in 34 games—but the Super Lig, despite its intensity, is not considered a proving ground for Europe’s elite.
Saudi side Al Hilal triggered his now-reduced €75 million release clause, offering €30 million a year, but Osimhen declined, holding firm on his ambition to remain in Europe.
His numbers remain strong: an xG of 24.3, a shot conversion rate above 30%, and dominance in duels. But his passing accuracy dipped, and questions persist about fitness and consistency at the top level.
Interest from clubs like Manchester United or Barcelona lingers, but uncertainty over Napoli’s tough negotiating stance and his injury history still casts a shadow.
