In a poignant revelation, Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has expressed the emotional toll that selling their star striker, Victor Osimhen, would inflict, transcending mere financial considerations, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Amidst speculation surrounding Osimhen's potential departure from the Partenopei this summer, reports suggest a hefty release clause ranging between €120-130m embedded in the forward's new contract inked last December has piqued the interest of Premier League powerhouses Chelsea and Arsenal, along with Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Acknowledging the impending dilemma, De Laurentiis conceded the formidable challenge of bidding farewell to the Nigerian sensation, who has graced the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium with four stellar seasons. He remarked, "Osimhen has a release clause. That’s a lot of money. Money is Napoli’s latest problem. We have always made good purchases and will continue to do so in the future."
However, De Laurentiis juxtaposed financial concerns with sentimental attachment, likening the departure of a player to bidding adieu to a cherished child. He articulated this sentiment at the FT’s Football Business Summit, stating, "The problem is only sentimental, because every time a player leaves it’s like saying goodbye to a child, but at the same time you’re happy even when he achieves success elsewhere."
Despite the looming uncertainty, Osimhen's impact on Napoli's campaign this season remains indisputable, with the Nigerian marksman notching an impressive tally of 11 goals in 15 league appearances for the reigning Serie A champions.
As Napoli navigates the intricacies of player retention and the allure of lucrative offers, De Laurentiis' candid remarks underscore the intricate blend of financial pragmatism and heartfelt attachment woven into the fabric of football management.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun