Napoli chief admits things have changed with Chelsea target Victor Osimhen
- The Nigerian striker's current contract has less than two years to run
- Intermediaries working on future of Napoli striker and have contacted Premier League clubs
- Chelsea remain interested in signing Osimhen
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis admits there is nothing he can do about Victor Osimhen's future if the player's "mood" has changed when it comes to signing a new contract.
The 24-year-old's contract at the Serie A champions expires in the summer of 2025, and extension talks were held with the player's representatives over the summer.
However, for varying reasons, the deal has not been concluded, and the relationship between player and club has soured in the wake of Napoli's social media team mocking Osimhen for missing a penalty.
Long-term suitors Chelsea are keeping a close eye on the situation and are waiting to see if Napoli can convince Osimhen to extend his stay in Sicily. If fresh terms are not agreed, it's likely a move will be sanctioned in 2024 to allow Napoli to recoup the highest transfer fee possible.
90min understands that intermediaries are doing their due diligence on Osimhen's behalf and that has seen them contact the Premier League's biggest clubs. Chelsea aside, Arsenal and Liverpool have been engaged in conversations but nothing more at this stage.
De Laurentiis has now publicly admitted that there's little he can do if Osimhen does not want to commit to Napoli, telling reporters: "I have never not been calm when it comes to Osimhen, but it takes two to tango.
"I remain the same, if his mood has changed, then there’s not much I can do about that. If after a handshake things change, that is disappointing, we take it into account, but life goes on.
“We have a good rapport with him, the contract runs to 2025, so there is time. Don’t forget I sold Koulibaly at the last minute."
The outspoken Napoli president also addressed his frustration at Osimhen picking up an injury while away on Nigeria international duty, saying: "Since 2013 we have received a total of circa €4m in reimbursement for the participation of our players in international games, despite the fact there were always at least 10 players called up.
"This is no good. I think international duty should only be for players of a maximum of 22 years, so it gives them good practice and visibility. I also believe the clubs should be allowed to decide whether to release their players, especially if it is a friendly.
"If I paid €50m for a player and he returns injured, they ought to reimburse the club for the cost of every day he is out of action. Just think about Neymar…"
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