Victor Osimhen in action, now set to join Galatasaray after a long saga with Napoli.
The curtain has finally fallen on one of football`s more prolonged transfer sagas. After years of speculation and a relationship often described as strained, star striker Victor Osimhen is set to depart Napoli, embarking on a new chapter with Turkish giants Galatasaray. This move marks a pivotal moment for both the player and the Neapolitan club, ushering in a new era under the demanding guidance of manager Antonio Conte.
Osimhen`s Turbulent Tenure and a Peculiar Clause
Victor Osimhen`s journey with Napoli has been a rollercoaster. Arriving five years ago with a handshake promise to President Aurelio De Laurentiis, the Nigerian international delivered on that vow, notably playing a crucial role as top scorer in Napoli`s historic Scudetto triumph. Yet, the subsequent seasons were punctuated by persistent transfer speculation and public disagreements, culminating in a period last season where he was reportedly “out of roster.” Galatasaray emerged as the solution, and after renewed contact, the Turkish club has reportedly agreed to Napoli`s stringent terms, closing a deal valued at a substantial €75 million. This sum is structured with an initial payment of €40 million, followed by €35 million due by 2026.
However, the agreement comes with a distinctly De Laurentiis twist: an “anti-Italy” clause. Galatasaray is reportedly prohibited from reselling Osimhen to another Italian club until 2027, under threat of an enormous penalty that would effectively double the original transfer fee. One might wonder if this clause is a stroke of genius, safeguarding Napoli from future domestic competition, or simply a testament to the Neapolitan president`s theatrical flair. Regardless, it certainly adds an intriguing layer to an already complex negotiation, ensuring De Laurentiis maintains his reputation for shrewd, if sometimes unconventional, business practices.
Sam Beukema undergoes medical examinations, a new defensive addition for Napoli.
Conte`s Rebuilding Begins: New Faces in Naples
With Osimhen`s future settled, Napoli, under the pragmatic leadership of Antonio Conte, is swiftly moving to fortify its squad. Conte, known for his meticulous approach and clear vision, wasted no time in identifying key targets to reshape the team`s core.
Lorenzo Lucca: The Italian Giant Arrives
One of the first new arrivals is striker Lorenzo Lucca. His journey to Dimaro, Napoli`s training camp, was a testament to his determination, involving multiple transfers and medicals. Lucca reportedly pushed hard for the move, keen to embrace Conte`s project. The manager himself has publicly praised Lucca, notably after a Napoli-Udinese match, remarking on the young striker`s “dominant” presence. Lucca joins from Udinese in a deal structured as a loan with an obligation to buy for €26 million, committing to a six-year contract, mirroring the structure seen in previous high-profile signings.
Sam Beukema: Bolstering the Defense
Completing the defensive lineup is Dutch center-back Sam Beukema. Expected to undergo medicals and join the training camp imminently, his arrival from Bologna for €30 million plus bonuses will provide Conte with another crucial piece for his defensive strategy. Beukema`s acquisition signals Napoli`s intent to build a robust and disciplined backline, a hallmark of Conte`s successful teams.
What`s Next for Napoli?
While the Osimhen saga concludes and new players arrive, Napoli`s transfer activities are far from over. The club remains interested in Bologna`s winger Dan Ndoye, though the current asking price of €40 million is reportedly a sticking point. As the preseason unfolds, Conte`s Napoli is rapidly taking shape, aiming to blend established talent with promising new acquisitions to mount a formidable challenge in the upcoming season. The departure of a star player often signifies the end of an era, but for Napoli, it appears to be the aggressive dawn of a new one.
Murray Blackwood