Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen is reportedly close to joining French giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Paris club are said to have met the Napoli man's release clause.
This confirms earlier reports about Napoli receiving assurances from PSG about meeting Napoli's valuation of Osimhen.
This development will be a big blow to all the clubs that were linked with Osimhen, especially to the English Premier League side Chelsea.
The Londoners are known to be long-time admirers of the Nigeria international and were bent on roping Osimhen into their squad this summer.
This was buoyed by Osimhen confirming his desire to play in the Premier League and expressing his admiration for Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, whom he considers an idol.
PSG want the Super Eagles forward as a replacement for Kylian Mbappe, who will leave the club at the end of the season. Mbappe's contract is set to expire in June, and with his decision not to renew, he is poised to depart the Parc des Princes as a free agent at the end of this season, a move that has not been well received by the PSG hierarchy.
How much is Osimhen's buyout clause?
Having extended his Napoli contract in December 2023, the 25-year-old's current contract with the Naples club runs out in 2026. As a result, his release clause is estimated to be in the region of €120 million (£103 million/$129 million).
It is worth mentioning that Osimhen has at a point in his career played in Ligue 1. He joined Lille in 2019 on a five-year deal, with the transfer fee reported to be €12 million plus an additional €3 million in various bonuses and add-ons.
He scored 13 goals in 27 games for Lille, a feat good enough to earn a move to Napoli after just one season with the French club.
How much will the Super Eagles forward earn at PSG?
Osimhen is expected to sign a four-year deal with PSG and is anticipated to earn €13 million annually. The Napoli striker is reportedly said to manage his image rights.
If the reports are true, the reigning African Footballer of the Year will be earning €250,000 per week.
How Osimhen could be just what PSG need
Osimhen's potential arrival at PSG comes at a crucial juncture for the club, as they seek to maintain their dominance domestically and compete in European competitions.
The Nigerian forward has etched his name in Italian football folklore, proving himself as a potent goal-scoring threat capable of thriving in various tactical setups.
Under the tutelage of manager Luis Enrique, Osimhen's skillset could seamlessly integrate into PSG's attacking framework.
Enrique's tactical acumen and emphasis on fluid, attacking football fits well with Osimhen's attributes as a mobile and clinical striker.
The Nigerian's ability to lead the line, make intelligent runs, and finish with precision make him an ideal fit for Enrique's dynamic offensive system.
Osimhen's work-rate and willingness to press from the front would complement PSG's high-intensity playing style, providing additional defensive contributions and tactical flexibility.
His blend of athleticism, technical ability, and mental strength make him not only a goal-scoring threat but also a valuable asset in PSG's overall team dynamics.
