Dušan Vlahović has reportedly turned down the chance to join Napoli in a proposed swap deal that would have seen Victor Osimhen move to Juventus, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Serbian forward was expected to be included as part of Juventus‘ proposal for Osimhen, allowing the Turin giants to reduce the cost of acquiring the Nigerian striker.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis had hinted that while keeping Osimhen remains a possibility, some offers simply cannot be ignored.
However, Vlahović has made it clear, according to Corriere della Sera via Forza Juve, that he has no interest in relocating to Naples, and is said to be considering leaving Juventus on a free transfer when his contract expires next summer.
Juventus are now exploring other options, having already secured the signing of Canadian striker Jonathan David on a free transfer. But the Osimhen transfer story is far from over.
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All eyes are now on July 15 — a date which could prove pivotal. That’s when Napoli resume pre-season training, and it also marks the expiry of Osimhen’s €75 million release clause. Once the clause expires, Napoli will have full control over any potential transfer fee, making negotiations even more complex for suitors.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Juventus remain in contact with Osimhen’s representatives, despite denials from within the club.
Scouting director Giorgio Chiellini recently dismissed the speculation, telling habersarikirmizi as per PAF:
“Victor Osimhen transfer? We’ve nothing to do with Osimhen. You’ve to fill the pages and report the news. We read a lot of things that make us laugh. You keep talking, we keep working.”
Romano, however, insists the Old Lady have made contact.
“Let’s see what happens with Juventus,” he said on his YouTube channel.
“They called Napoli recently regarding Osimhen. But for now, Galatasaray and Al-Hilal are actively working to make the deal happen.”
Osimhen, who was on loan at Galatasaray last season, remains one of the most in-demand strikers in the market.
The Nigerian international had a prolific season in Turkey, netting 37 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions and providing five assists in the league alone. Galatasaray are hoping to re-sign him permanently, although their financial power pales in comparison to Saudi side Al-Hilal, who have also made their interest known.
While Manchester United fans continue to hope for a swoop, Romano clarified that no concrete talks have been held between the Premier League club and Napoli.
At 26, Osimhen is at the peak of his powers, and he is believed to prefer remaining in Europe.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.