Napoli president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is determined to block Juventus’ interest in Victor Osimhen, insisting the on-loan striker will not be joining the Old Lady during the summer transfer window.
The Nigerian forward, currently on loan at Galatasaray, is set to leave Napoli in the summer after falling out with the club’s hierarchy last season.
Since joining the Turkish Super Lig side, the 26-year-old has scored 29 goals and provided six assists in all competitions, sparking growing interest from clubs across Europe.
Premier League teams Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal are reportedly pursuing the striker, while Juventus, Napoli’s domestic rivals, have also expressed interest in Osimhen.
However, De Laurentiis has no plans to allow his prized asset to join the Serie A champions.
Speaking on Radio Kiss Kiss via Calciomercato, the Italian club owner made it clear that Osimhen will not be joining Juventus.
“No! Never at Juventus,” De Laurentiis stated.
Napoli is reportedly willing to lower Osimhen’s €75m valuation to facilitate a deal with Manchester United and prevent him from joining Juventus in the summer.
The former African Player of the Year was expected to leave last summer, but a move to Saudi Arabia fell through, and he rejected a transfer to Chelsea over personal terms.
Galatasaray is also said to be willing to make sacrifices to keep the 26-year-old, though convincing him to stay may prove difficult.
The player has been quiet about his future, saying, “There are always rumours about me, but I live in the moment. I’m enjoying all this now. The fans supported me in an incredible way. Not only me but also my companions and my family. The best decision will be made for everyone, but Galatasaray will forever remain in my heart.”
