Napoli manager Antonio Conte is reportedly planning to exclude Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from first-team training when he returns to the club following the end of his loan spell at Galatasaray.
According to Turkish outlet Fotomac, Osimhen is expected to report back for pre-season training with Napoli but will be sidelined from the main squad, as Conte does not consider the 26-year-old part of his long-term plans.
The decision comes amid growing speculation over Osimhen’s future. Manchester United are said to be leading the race for his signature, as they look to bolster their attacking options under new management. Sporting CP, led by Ruben Amorim, is also reported to be in pursuit, while other suitors include Juventus, Chelsea, and Galatasaray.
Galatasaray, where Osimhen enjoyed a prolific loan spell last season, are especially keen to retain him and reportedly gave the striker a deadline to commit to their project. However, no decision has been made on his next destination.
Further complicating matters are conflicting reports regarding his transfer valuation. Some sources claim Osimhen’s €75 million release clause is set to drop later this month, while others suggest his price may actually rise if negotiations drag beyond mid-July.
Amid interest from European giants, Osimhen has also turned down a staggering offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. Transfer expert Armando Areniello revealed that the Saudi Pro League side offered the Nigerian forward a deal worth €50 million per season—potentially reaching €160 million over three years.
“Victor Osimhen has never been so close to leaving Napoli,” Areniello told ArenaNapoli. “Al Hilal’s latest monstrous bid could be decisive. Negotiations are ongoing, and an agreement with Napoli could be struck between €60 million and €65 million.”
Despite the lucrative Saudi offer, Osimhen is believed to favour staying in Europe, with the Premier League his preferred destination. Manchester United remain front-runners, while Chelsea have previously held discussions, and Arsenal have yet to submit a formal offer. Liverpool were also linked with a player-swap proposal involving Federico Chiesa and Darwin Núñez, but Napoli reportedly rejected the approach.
Osimhen enjoyed a remarkable campaign with Galatasaray, netting 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 matches, helping the Turkish giants secure a domestic double. His form has reignited interest from several elite European clubs and further fueled uncertainty around his future.
Napoli’s pre-season is scheduled to begin with medical tests on July 14-15, followed by training in Dimaro, Trentino-Alto Adige from July 17-27. The squad will then move to Castel di Sangro for the second phase of preparations from July 30 to August 14.
Though La Gazzetta dello Sport previously reported Osimhen would be included in the pre-season squad, latest indications suggest he will be sidelined from first-team activities as Napoli positions for a summer exit.
