Why PSG Walked Away from Victor Osimhen Deal: Inside the Breakdown of a Blockbuster Transfer”
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has officially withdrawn from the race to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, ending months of speculation linking the Ligue 1 champions with the Napoli forward. Despite initial interest, PSG’s decision was influenced by a combination of financial considerations, tactical preferences, and existing squad depth.
Financial Constraints and Transfer Fee Disagreements
One of the primary reasons PSG abandoned their pursuit of Osimhen was the high transfer fee demanded by Napoli. The Italian club insisted on a €130 million release clause, a figure PSG deemed excessive. Negotiations between the two clubs failed to yield a compromise, with PSG unwilling to meet Napoli’s valuation. Reports indicated that PSG considered alternative arrangements, including player-plus-cash deals, but Napoli remained steadfast in their demands.
Tactical Decisions and Squad Depth
PSG’s sporting director, Luis Campos, acknowledged that while Osimhen was considered, the club ultimately decided against making a formal bid. Campos cited satisfaction with the existing attacking options, including Gonçalo Ramos, Randal Kolo Muani, and Marco Asensio. Despite Ramos’s injury concerns, PSG believed they had adequate cover in the forward positions.
Additionally, head coach Luis Enrique reportedly did not view Osimhen as a suitable fit for his tactical plans. Enrique’s preference for promoting internal solutions and his confidence in the current squad influenced the decision to forgo pursuing Osimhen.
Osimhen’s Career Trajectory and Future Prospects
Victor Osimhen’s future remains uncertain following PSG’s withdrawal. The striker, who played a pivotal role in Napoli’s 2022/23 Serie A title win, has expressed a desire to leave the club. However, failed negotiations with PSG and other interested clubs, such as Chelsea and Manchester United, have left him in a state of limbo.
Osimhen was notably left out of Napoli’s Serie A squad for the season, signaling the club’s intention to move on without him. He subsequently joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan, where he has continued to showcase his goal-scoring prowess.
Reports suggest that Osimhen has agreed to join Manchester United in the upcoming summer transfer window, with a potential transfer fee estimated between £25-30 million. While a formal agreement between Manchester United and Napoli has not been finalized, Osimhen is reportedly enthusiastic about the move to Old Trafford.
Conclusion
PSG’s decision to abandon the pursuit of Victor Osimhen was influenced by a combination of financial constraints, tactical considerations, and confidence in their existing squad. While the Nigerian striker’s future remains uncertain, his impressive performances continue to attract interest from top European clubs. As the transfer market evolves, Osimhen’s next move will be closely watched by football enthusiasts worldwide.