By Sonia Ighalo
Juventus has renewed its hope to sign Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen
Juventus are making a renewed push to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli, with Sky Sport Italia reporting that the Bianconeri have re-established contact with the player’s camp over the last 48 hours to accelerate negotiations.
Osimhen has long been on Juventus’ shortlist for the summer transfer window, alongside Canadian forward Jonathan David, who is currently a free agent. But it’s Osimhen who now appears to be the priority as Juve look to revamp their attacking options ahead of the new season.
Napoli unwilling to sell cheap to Rivals
Despite Juventus’ interest, negotiating a deal will be complicated. Osimhen’s current €75 million release clause is only valid for foreign clubs, a strategic move by Napoli to discourage Serie A rivals from swooping in.
If Juventus want the striker, Napoli is reportedly demanding a minimum of €80 million, knowing full well the risk of strengthening a direct title rival, a lesson they learned after selling Gonzalo HiguaÃn to Juventus for €100 million in 2016.
Osimhen’s market situation
Although Osimhen is regarded as one of Europe’s elite strikers, interest from other top clubs has cooled in recent weeks.
Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester United have yet to make any formal moves, and none are believed to be prioritising the 25-year-old this summer.
Meanwhile, the Saudi side Al-Hilal were reportedly willing to meet his full €75 million clause and offer a staggering €30 million annual salary, but Osimhen rejected the proposal, reaffirming his desire to remain in Europe.