Victor Osimhen was notably absent on Monday as Serie A champions Napoli resumed pre-season training, amid ongoing talks over a permanent move to Turkish giants Galatasaray.
According to a brief statement from the club, players gathered at the training centre for medical and fitness assessments, with Napoli confirming that Osimhen “was absent and provided a medical certificate.”
The Nigerian striker played a pivotal role in Napoli’s 2023 Scudetto win and spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, where he netted 26 goals in 30 league appearances, helping the Istanbul side secure their 25th Super Lig title.
Despite his success, Osimhen does not appear to be in new manager Antonio Conte’s plans for the upcoming campaign. However, Napoli are unwilling to sell the 26-year-old for less than €75 million (\$87.5 million). Negotiations with Galatasaray have been ongoing for weeks but remain stalled, primarily over payment structure.
Meanwhile, Napoli’s new marquee signing Kevin De Bruyne, who recently joined from Manchester City, was also absent from Monday’s session.
