Why Napoli must sell Osimhen to land Lukaku and McTominay

Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen has dominated the 2024 summer transfer rumours, with several top European clubs circling but none yet able to meet Napoli’s steep asking price for the prolific striker, Soccernet.ng reports.

However, as the transfer window heats up, Napoli finds itself at a critical juncture—one that could redefine their squad and ambitions for the upcoming season.

Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, is reportedly in England, actively negotiating potential deals with Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion. The Neapolitans are eyeing Romelu Lukaku and Scott McTominay as key targets to strengthen their squad.

Yet, acquiring these players comes with a hefty price tag, putting Napoli in a position where they may have to consider selling their prized asset, Osimhen, to finance the moves.

Chelsea’s Lukaku remains a top priority for Napoli, with the London club valuing the Belgian striker at over £30 million. Napoli, constrained by financial limitations, is pushing for a loan deal—a proposition Chelsea is hesitant to accept, as they prefer a permanent transfer.

Meanwhile, Manchester United’s Scott McTominay also figures prominently on Napoli’s wishlist, but the Red Devils are demanding a fee of £30 million or more for the midfielder.

These financial demands are why Napoli’s pursuit of Lukaku and McTominay could hinge on the sale of Osimhen. Letting go of their star striker would provide the necessary funds to bring in both targets, but it would also leave a gaping hole in their attack, raising concerns among fans about the club’s direction.

Although Paris Saint-Germain, once a frontrunner for Osimhen, appears to have cooled their interest, Chelsea could still emerge as a potential suitor.

Should Chelsea offload big earners like Lukaku, Raheem Sterling, or Ben Chilwell, they might return with a renewed interest in Osimhen, potentially rescuing Napoli from their financial conundrum.