Nigerian international striker Victor Osimhen is slated to join Napoli’s pre-season training beginning in mid-July, despite the anticipation of his departure from the club.
Italian sports daily, La Gazzetta dello Sport, announced this development about the 26-year-old that had an impressive season on loan at Galatasaray, in Turkish.
Napoli’s pre-season activities are set to commence on July 14, and the former Lille player is expected to link up with his current teammates to kick off preparations for the upcoming season.
Osimhen recently returned from a holiday in Nigeria after helping Galatasaray secure a domestic double, including the Super Lig and the Turkish Cup titles.
While on loan at the club, he scored 37 goals and provided eight assists across 41 appearances in all competitions.
While his future club remains unconfirmed, the Port City News reported that Osimhen turned down a lucrative €40 million-per-year offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.
According to Football Italia, the Saudi Pro League side has not abandoned their pursuit of the player, but if they fail to reach an agreement with the striker by mid-July, he will be formally required to begin pre-season with the rest of the squad.
Napoli’s team medical assessments are scheduled for July 14 and 15, with training sessions slated for Dimaro, Trentino Alto Adige, from July 17 to 27.
Following a brief two-day break, preparations will continue in Castel Di Sangro, Abruzzo, between July 30 and August 14.
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Reports suggest Napoli will soon notify Osimhen of his pre-season commitments.
Although he is likely to undergo medical tests with his teammates, it remains uncertain whether he will participate in full team training or follow a separate regimen.
Osimhen’s current contract with Napoli is set to expire in June 2026, though the club holds an option to extend it until 2027.
His contract contains a €75 million release clause, which does not apply to fellow Serie A clubs, implying that Italian teams like Juventus would need to offer a higher sum.
He has also been linked with a move to the English Premier League, widely considered his preferred next destination.
Manchester United appears to be leading the chase, while Chelsea has previously held discussions with the player. Arsenal reportedly did not submit a concrete offer, and Liverpool was rumoured to be interested in a player-plus-cash deal for the prolific striker.
