Victor Osimhen’s wage demands are proving problematic for interested clubs as the forward pushes for a transfer away from Napoli.
Osimhen is one of the most coveted centre-forwards in Europe and has made clear his desire for a new challenge this summer, following four goal-laden seasons in Naples.
The Nigeria international has scored 76 goals in 133 appearances for the Italian side and was the league’s leading scorer during Napoli’s 2022-23 Serie A title triumph.
Though regarded as one of the best out-and-out strikers in world football, Osimhen’s wage demands are stalling a potential move.
The 25-year-old currently receives around €10m per season at Napoli and would expect an increase on that salary with a move to one of Europe’s elite.
Napoli are prepared to allow Osimhen to leave for less than his €130m (£110m) release clause as part of a pact between the player and club over a summer transfer, though will demand a fee over €100m (£84.6m) for the forward.
SpazioNapoli are reporting that Paris Saint-Germain – who are in search of a replacement for Kylian Mbappe – are one of four teams involved in the running to sign Osimhen, alongside Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United. The player’s preference remains a move to the Premier League.
There is interest in Osimhen from the Saudi Pro League but the 2023 African Footballer of the Year has no interest in a move to the Middle East at this stage of his career. His priority would be a transfer to England, provided one of the interested trio can finance a deal.
