Victor Osimhen Edging Closer to PSG Move: Why Premier League Clubs Missed Out
The Napoli striker has been the subject of intense transfer speculation in recent weeks, with French giants Paris Saint-Germain emerging as the frontrunners to secure his signature. As the transfer saga unfolds, Premier League clubs Arsenal and Chelsea have been left to ponder what could have been.
Napoli’s Victor Osimhen in action
Despite initially showing interest in the Nigerian international, both clubs eventually cooled their pursuit of Osimhen due to concerns over the financial implications of meeting his release clause. According to reports, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis lowered the striker’s release clause from £113 million to £85 million to facilitate a move and raise transfer funds for Antonio Conte.
However, even with the reduced release clause, Premier League clubs were unable to meet the financial demands of signing Osimhen. This is largely due to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rule (PSR), which prohibits clubs from losing more than £105 million over three seasons. Clubs who exceed this threshold face hefty fines and points deductions, as seen in the cases of Everton and Nottingham Forest last season.
The Premier League logo
Osimhen has been advised by Napoli legend Alessandro Renica to stay at the Estadio Diego Armando Maradona and work with new manager Antonio Conte. However, with PSG working on a deal to sign him, it remains to be seen whether the Nigerian striker will take the advice on board.
“PSG are working on a deal to sign Victor Osimhen.” - Fabrizio Romano
The Parc des Princes, home of Paris Saint-Germain
As the transfer window continues to heat up, fans of Premier League clubs will be left to wonder what could have been if their teams had managed to secure the services of the prolific striker.
