Turin – Italian football powerhouse Juventus is preparing a bold summer move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with reports suggesting the Turin-based club is ready to table a bid exceeding €85 million to secure his signature.

The move comes amid growing tensions with Napoli, who are reportedly making every effort to prevent the Nigerian star from joining a direct Serie A rival. According to sources familiar with the deal, Osimhen’s contract contains a release clause set at €75 million—but crucially, that clause only applies to non-Italian clubs, forcing Juventus to go well above that figure to stay in contention.

Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Turkish side Galatasaray, has enjoyed a spectacular 2024/25 season, netting 33 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions—including 24 goals and five assists in just 27 league games. His red-hot form has reignited interest from top clubs across Europe and the Middle East.

The striker’s move to Galatasaray followed a failed permanent transfer from Napoli last summer, which broke down at the final stages. Nevertheless, his loan spell has turned into one of the most productive campaigns of his career, making him one of the most sought-after forwards in world football.

While Napoli is prepared to sell Osimhen, the club remains firm on blocking any move within Italy under the terms of his current deal. That hasn't deterred Juventus, who are reportedly determined to test Napoli's resolve with a premium offer that may be too good to refuse.

However, Juventus is not alone in the race. Osimhen’s wage demands—reportedly around €11 million per year—have already scared off potential suitors like Manchester United and Chelsea. But financially stronger contenders remain in the mix.

Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal has emerged as a serious threat in the race for the Nigerian's signature. According to Corriere dello Sport, the club is ready to meet the €75 million release clause and offer what insiders have called a “pharaonic” contract—reportedly worth up to €35 million per season.

Despite Juventus' ambitious bid, insiders say the Bianconeri face an uphill task, not only in navigating the legal and financial roadblocks imposed by Napoli, but also in fending off more lucrative offers from abroad.

Osimhen's future now hangs in the balance as clubs scramble to meet Napoli’s conditions while also matching the forward's high personal terms. The summer window is set to be a fierce battle—not just for a striker, but for one of Africa’s finest football exports in recent memory.


By WafricNews Desk.