SSC Napoli manager Antonio Conte is reportedly set to exclude Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from first-team training upon his return to the club, following the expiration of his loan spell at Galatasaray.
According to Turkish outlet Fotomac, the 26-year-old will not be integrated into Conte’s pre-season plans, as he is not considered part of Napoli’s long-term project. The report claims Osimhen is preparing to return to Naples for pre-season but will be isolated from the main squad upon arrival.
This development comes amid intense transfer speculation surrounding the Super Eagles forward, who is attracting strong interest from top European clubs. Manchester United are said to be in “pole position” to land the prolific striker, as they seek to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season.
Osimhen’s future remains unclear, with Galatasaray keen to retain him following his standout campaign in Istanbul. Juventus, along with several Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool, have also been linked to the Nigerian international. Galatasaray reportedly gave Osimhen a deadline to commit to their project, but no official decision has been announced.
Adding to the uncertainty are conflicting reports about his release clause. While some sources suggest his €75 million buyout clause will decrease later this month, others claim the fee could rise if negotiations drag on beyond mid-July.
Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal have tabled a jaw-dropping offer for the striker, reportedly worth €50 million per season. Transfer expert Armando Areniello claims the total package could reach €160 million over three years. Napoli are believed to be considering a transfer fee in the region of €60–65 million for the player.
“Victor Osimhen has never been this close to leaving Napoli,” Areniello said via ArenaNapoli. “Negotiations are underway with the Azzurri, and Al Hilal’s monstrous bid could prove decisive.”
Despite the lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, Osimhen has consistently indicated a desire to remain in Europe, with the Premier League seen as his preferred destination. Manchester United currently lead the race among English clubs. Chelsea have previously held talks with his representatives, while Arsenal are yet to submit a formal bid. Liverpool’s proposed player-swap deal involving Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa was reportedly rejected by Napoli.
Osimhen’s stellar form during his loan at Galatasaray — where he netted 37 goals and registered eight assists in 41 appearances — has only intensified interest in his services. He played a key role in the Turkish club’s domestic double, reaffirming his status as one of Europe’s most potent forwards.
Napoli’s pre-season begins on July 14, with medicals scheduled for July 14–15. The squad will train in Dimaro from July 17–27, before heading to Castel Di Sangro for further preparation from July 30 to August 14.
Although La Gazzetta dello Sport previously reported that Osimhen was included in the pre-season squad, current indications suggest the striker will be sidelined from first-team involvement pending the resolution of his transfer situation.