Napoli has reportedly opened discussions today regarding Galatasaray’s latest proposal to finalize a permanent transfer for striker Victor Osimhen. The move marks a new phase in a saga that has spanned multiple summer bids, contract negotiations, and strategic tug-of-war.
🔁 A Heated Back-and-Forth
Galatasaray’s revised bid reportedly amounts to €75 million, structured as €40 million upfront with the balance paid in installments through bank guarantees (Punch Newspapers, FootBoom). This comes after an earlier small-scale offer of €70 million that Napoli immediately rebuffed, citing insufficient guarantees (Punch Newspapers).
Only a few days prior, on July 9, the Italian champions also rejected a separate €75 million offer framed differently — this time with potential links to Saudi backup bids — with Napoli insisting on full lump-sum payment or robust bank assurances (FootBoom).
Why Napoli Is Holding Firm
- Release Clause Pressure: Osimhen’s contractual release clause of €75 million expires on July 15, 2025 (Football Italia). Napoli is keen to finalize terms before the deadline, after which they could demand an even higher fee.
- Immediate Financial Needs: President De Laurentiis appears insistent on a lump sum to meet the club’s tight financial obligations — installment offers simply don’t suffice (Vanguard News, beIN SPORTS).
- Strategic Focus: Napoli seem to be using this sale to overhaul their striker structure; reports suggest they may now pursue Darwin Núñez from Liverpool once Osimhen’s future is resolved (The Liverpool Offside).
The Player’s Preference & External Interest
- Osimhen himself reportedly prefers Galatasaray, expressing displeasure with the idea of returning to Napoli or moving to Saudi Arabia — Ian pleads for the Turkish destination (Vanguard News).
- He recently rejected Al-Hilal’s lucrative proposal, rumored to be as high as €160 million in total compensation, signaling his commitment to remain in Europe (Türkiye Today).
- He’s strongly indicated he will not report to Napoli’s pre-season, scheduled around July 17, increasing pressure for a resolution (Vanguard News).
What This Means — And What Comes Next
| Timeline | Key Developments |
|---|---|
| By July 15 | Osimhen’s €75 million release clause expires — negotiations must conclude or Napoli regains full leverage. |
| Immediate outlook | Napoli is negotiating guarantees, not just raw fees. A lump sum may still seal the deal. |
| Future strategy | With a deal, Napoli can shift focus to replacements like Núñez — Liverpool’s current ask is around €70 million (The Liverpool Offside). |
Analyst Take
- Galatasaray’s Strategy: They’re showing commitment with structured payments and meeting the negotiation number, banking on personal terms and previous loan success (37 goals in 41 appearances) to clinch the deal.
- Napoli’s Stand: Firm in their financial demands, unwilling to discount so close to the clause deadline, and strategically eyeing the next wave of talent.
- Osimhen’s Position: Clear and unwavering; he’s determined to remain in Turkey — despite lucrative Middle Eastern offers.
Final Word
This summer, July 15th stands as the decisive deadline. If Galatasaray can match Napoli’s demand with guaranteed funds, the transfer may close. If not, Napoli will likely extend the clause or elevate the asking price — leaving Osimhen’s future in further limbo.
Stay on the lookout: expect more minutes in today’s negotiations and a potential breakthrough — or a deadlock — as the days tick down.
