Mr. Victor Osimhen was notably absent as SSC Napoli commenced its pre-season training session in Naples on the previous day, with 14 players in attendance.
Mr. Osimhen, aged 26, recently concluded a 10-month loan tenure with Turkish club Galatasaray as of July 1. Notwithstanding ongoing negotiations between Galatasaray and Napoli for a potential permanent transfer during the current summer window, Mr. Osimhen remains under contract with Napoli until June 2026 and was anticipated to resume training duties with the Italian side.
However, according to transfer analyst Mr. Matteo Moretto, speaking via his official YouTube channel, Mr. Osimhen did not present himself at the training facility as expected. Instead, he submitted a medical certificate to justify his absence from the opening day of the club’s pre-season camp.
Sources suggest that SSC Napoli’s executive leadership—reportedly intent on preventing Mr. Osimhen’s departure from the club—may be contemplating disciplinary measures in response to his non-appearance.
Mr. Osimhen had been designated to participate in a preliminary group of players scheduled for standard medical assessments prior to the formal commencement of pre-season training.
In a brief official statement issued by the club, SSC Napoli confirmed: “The players gathered at the training center for medical examinations and fitness tests. Victor Osimhen was absent and submitted a medical certificate.
This development follows an earlier request made by Galatasaray to SSC Napoli, seeking the temporary exemption of Mr. Victor Osimhen from pre-season training activities, citing ongoing efforts to finalize his permanent transfer to Istanbul.
Renowned football transfer analyst Mr. Fabrizio Romano later reported via his official X (formerly Twitter) account that formal negotiations between Napoli and Galatasaray concerning Mr. Osimhen’s transfer had resumed.
“€40 million immediate payment and €35 million in installments are currently under discussion,” Mr. Romano disclosed, noting that payment terms and bank guarantees are emerging as key elements of the negotiation.
It is recalled that during the 2023 summer transfer window, Mr. Osimhen unsuccessfully attempted to orchestrate an exit from Napoli. His efforts were reportedly obstructed by the club’s president, Mr. Aurelio De Laurentiis, who was instead inclined to sell the player to a Saudi Arabian club. Subsequently, a loan move to Galatasaray was arranged, providing a crucial opportunity for the Nigerian international.
During his loan tenure at Galatasaray, Mr. Osimhen delivered an impressive performance, registering 26 goals in 30 league appearances. In light of his contract’s €75 million release clause, SSC Napoli has adopted a firm position in current negotiations and has reportedly expressed unwillingness to accept a reduced fee for the transfer of the Super Eagles striker.#newsafro_
