In a surprising turn of events, Napoli have officially removed Victor Osimhen from their Serie A squad list for the 2024-25 season. The Nigerian striker’s departure from the squad comes after a tumultuous transfer deadline day that saw potential moves to Chelsea and Saudi Pro League’s Al-Ahli fall through.
Adding to the drama, Napoli have handed Osimhen’s coveted number 9 shirt to their new signing, Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian striker is expected to lead the line in Napoli’s upcoming match against Parma at the Stadio Maradona on Saturday evening.
Osimhen, who remains under contract with Napoli until 2026 with a salary of around €10 million per season, had been hoping to secure a lucrative move to Al-Ahli. The Saudi club reportedly offered a four-year contract worth €40 million per season, but negotiations broke down when Napoli increased their asking price. Al-Ahli subsequently signed England international Ivan Toney from Brentford instead.
The squad reshuffling doesn’t end with Osimhen and Lukaku. Napoli’s deadline day acquisition, Billy Gilmour from Brighton, could feature on the bench for Saturday’s match. Another new signing, Scott McTominay, is expected to make his debut after the international break against Cagliari.
In other squad news, Mario Rui has also been removed from Napoli’s list to accommodate new signings, while Michael Folorunsho has retained his place.
