Napoli’s defiant Osimhen message after contract U-turn threat
Robin Bairner
- Updated: 4 Oct 2023 12:18 BST
- 4 min read
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is certain that striker Victor Osimhen will sign a new contract with the club, despite the TikTok controversy that has dogged the Nigeria international forward for the last week.
Osimhen’s future at Napoli seemed to be called into question when his representative suggested the player was willing to take legal action against the Serie A club after insulting videos towards the forward were posted on the club’s TikTok account.
The prolific striker has no shortage of suitors, with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Arsenal all linked with the player during the summer transfer window. These clubs are continuing to track a star whose contract is up in 2025.
EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea ahead of Arsenal in race for No.1 target Osimhen
Tensions have eased thanks to 4-1 and 4-0 victories over Udinese and Lecce respectively. These were followed by a battling 3-2 Champions League loss in a match marked by a Jude Bellingham wondergoal for Los Blancos.
Now Napoli’s president has talked up the likelihood of Osimhen finally signing a new deal after weeks of speculation.
“Osimhen was not even at issue. He’s a top player,” De Laurentiis told El Chiringuito.
“New deal? Yes, there’s no problem. There are never problems here.”
MORE: Chelsea abandon youth transfer policy for two goal machines
Osimhen on Napoli future
De Laurentiis’ statements come shortly after Osimhen himself issued a statement indicating that he plans to remain with the club.
Taking to Instagram, he said: “Coming to the city of Naples in 2020 was a wonderful decision for me.
"The people of Naples have shown me so much love and kindness, and I will not allow anyone to come between us.
"The passion of the people of Naples fuels my fire to always play with my heart and soul, and the love for the badge is unwavering as I wear it with pride.
"I have a lot of friends who are Neapolitans and have become part of my family and everyday life. I appreciate Nigerians and everyone for lending their voices to support and reach out to me.
"Let's continue to spread unity, respect and understanding. Forza Napoli Sempre."
If Osimhen does not sign a new Napoli contract before next summer, his future will be hotly discussed, as the Serie A side will not wish to lose him as a free agent in 2025.
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