Napoli Exclude Osimhen from Squad, Strips Off his Shirt Number

Napoli have taken the number nine (9) shirt off Victor Osimhen and given it to Romelu Lukaku.

Napoli has officially excluded the Nigerian striker from their Serie A squad for the season, following a breakdown in negotiations and rising tensions between the player and the club.

The situation began deteriorating after Napoli won the 2022-23 Serie A title, with Osimhen finishing as the league’s top scorer. Although he signed a contract extension in December 2023, including a €130 million release clause, tensions grew when new coach Antonio Conte, appointed in June 2024, favored a move for Romelu Lukaku, hinting at Osimhen’s potential exit.

As the summer transfer window drew to a close, Al Ahli and Chelsea emerged as the only serious contenders for Osimhen. Al Ahli reportedly offered €80 million for his services, alongside a lucrative four-year contract worth €160 million, which Osimhen agreed to. However, the deal fell through when Napoli demanded a higher fee, prompting Al Ahli to back out. Simultaneously, Chelsea failed to meet Osimhen’s wage demands, leaving the player in limbo.

With no deal finalized, Osimhen remains at Napoli but is now frozen out of the squad as both sides explore options for a resolution. This saga leaves Osimhen’s future uncertain as the January transfer window could reignite interest in the striker.