Napoli head coach Antonio Conte has voiced his disappointment regarding the club’s failure to sell Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen during the summer transfer window.
Following Napoli’s 2-1 win over Parma, where Romelu Lukaku—seen as Osimhen’s potential replacement—scored after coming off the bench, Conte suggested that Osimhen’s future at the club could be uncertain.
Osimhen was close to finalizing a transfer to Chelsea on deadline day, but the deal fell through due to disputes over salary expectations. Additionally, his move to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal also did not materialize. As a result of these failed transfers, the Super Eagles star finds himself in a vulnerable position at Napoli, particularly with Lukaku’s arrival, who is anticipated to take on a key role in the squad.
“I’m happy with the work the club did on the market,” Conte said, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. “If there had been the sale of Victor Osimhen, we would have completed the situation… but I’m happy.”
Regarding Lukaku’s arrival, he stated:
“What can I say about Romelu. He is a unique centre-forward. Usually the big strikers are a bit slow, or you have to use them as a target in the penalty area, or they don’t have the best legs to exploit the space on the pitch.
“I have always described Lukaku as an American Football Player. He’s 1.90m tall, but very fast. He is a powerful player, we need someone who can hold it up, bring other players in, find combinations, while also being a player who can attack spaces and cause damage.”
That’s why I consider him to be unique. Having already said that he’s a good guy, I would put my hand on an open flame for him, and he knows the responsibility that has for me, for Napoli and for the fans.”
