It looks like Victor Osimhen could still leave Napoli next year even if he signs a new contract as Chelsea continue to circle the striker.
On Wednesday, Fabrizio Romano reported that Napoli had reached an agreement in principle with Victor Osimhen over a fresh deal. The transfer expert shared the update on X.
However, it may not make much difference in regard to the 24-year-old’s long-term future at the club, with journalist Fraser Gillan claiming that those close to the player expect him to leave gli Azzurri whether he signs a new contract or not.
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea will make Osimhen their top target when they enter the transfer market for a new striker.
If the Nigerian does go on to sign a contract extension, the Blues will have to probably wait until the summer to land him.
Victor Osimhen to leave Napoli in 2024
Even if Osimhen does put pen to paper on a new deal, which now looks likely, an exit in 2024 could still very much be on the table.
According to Romano, the Nigeria international’s contract will have a release clause in it, meaning Napoli will have no choice but to sell him if someone triggers it once it becomes active.
If Chelsea are the club to do it, then great. They need more firepower and Osimhen is undoubtedly a forward who can bring that.
The former Lille man, who was recently described as a “world-class striker” by AS Monaco’s Folarin Balogun in his interview with ESPN, scored 31 goals for Napoli last season.
That release clause is going to be a high one but probably one worth paying.
Should Chelsea decide otherwise, Brentford and England star Ivan Toney could be an alternative as he continues to be linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
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