**Date**: September 3, 2023
*Naples, Italy*:
Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has reportedly rejected a massive €200 million bid from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal for star striker Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian forward, who had a remarkable 2022/23 Serie A season, has been the subject of intense interest from various clubs, but Napoli appears determined to keep hold of their prized asset.
Al Hilal, from the Saudi Pro League, made a substantial offer for Osimhen during the summer transfer window, reportedly willing to pay up to €200 million to secure his services. However, Napoli’s president, De Laurentiis, stood firm and declined all formal bids for the striker.
In a reported email exchange with Al Hilal, De Laurentiis allegedly made a bold statement, saying, “Your bid can only buy one of Osimhen’s foot [sic],” underlining his unwillingness to part ways with the prolific Nigerian forward.
Furthermore, De Laurentiis is said to have set a new astronomical price tag for Osimhen’s potential transfer. He reportedly stated in the email that he would only entertain a bid for Osimhen if it exceeded €500 million. His message seemingly indicated that he would not consider any offers for the player in the near future.
De Laurentiis concluded by saying, “For next year, I expect you’ll be able to table €500 million and maybe we’ll entertain your offer, but I say again, ‘maybe’.”
Victor Osimhen played a pivotal role in Napoli’s successful 2022/23 Serie A campaign, scoring 26 goals to help the team clinch their first Scudetto in 33 years. Napoli has consistently expressed their determination to retain the Nigerian striker, considering him one of their most valuable assets.
As negotiations and transfer speculations continue, the football world watches closely to see how Osimhen’s future unfolds amid the remarkable offers being made for his talents.
