By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
A former top official at Napoli has revealed a key detail about Victor Osimhen’s controversial release clause that could significantly shape the Nigerian striker’s transfer prospects this summer. According to the ex-Napoli chief, the much-publicized €75 million buyout clause in Osimhen’s contract is only applicable to clubs outside Italy, effectively ruling out a transfer to any of Napoli’s Serie A rivals via the clause mechanism.
This revelation sheds light on Napoli’s calculated move to secure the player’s future while keeping the door open for a lucrative international sale. The clause, now confirmed to be foreign-club-exclusive, adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing transfer saga surrounding one of Africa’s most sought-after footballers.
A Clause with Borders
Osimhen, who joined Napoli from Lille in 2020, has grown into one of Europe’s top strikers, scoring consistently and playing a pivotal role in the club’s historic 2022/2023 Serie A title triumph. His form quickly caught the attention of elite clubs across Europe, from the English Premier League to Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga.
Earlier reports suggested that the Nigerian international had a release clause in the region of €120 million, but according to recent statements by a former senior Napoli figure, the revised amount is now €75 million—and only foreign clubs can activate it.
This strategic clause effectively blocks Juventus, AC Milan, Inter Milan, or any other domestic rival from acquiring Osimhen without Napoli’s direct negotiation. It also demonstrates the club’s desire to maintain competitive advantage within Serie A while leaving room for a high-profile international transfer.
“It was a protective move. Napoli never wanted Osimhen to join a local rival. That clause was designed to appeal only to big foreign clubs who can afford it,” the former Napoli official told Italian media.
Transfer Rumors Intensify
Osimhen has been at the center of transfer speculation throughout the past two seasons. Clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United have been repeatedly linked with the Nigerian striker. With the new clause details now public, these clubs have clearer pathways to pursue him without needing to negotiate a fee with Napoli—provided they meet the €75 million valuation.
Chelsea, in particular, has shown consistent interest as the Premier League side continues its hunt for a reliable and explosive frontman. However, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, known for his firm stance in transfer dealings, has remained tight-lipped about Osimhen’s potential departure, stating only that the club will act in its best interests.
What This Means for Osimhen and Napoli
This development marks a turning point for Osimhen’s career and Napoli’s future plans. At 25, the striker is entering his prime, and a move to a bigger club in England or elsewhere could significantly elevate his global profile and earnings.
For Napoli, the foreign-only clause is both a financial safeguard and a show of intent. While they acknowledge Osimhen’s ambition to compete at the highest level, they are equally determined not to empower a local competitor with his services.
The clause also gives Napoli some control over the narrative—they will lose their star man only on their terms, and only to a club outside Italy. That means the club can reinvest from a large fee without weakening its position within Serie A.
Final Thoughts
The confirmation of a €75 million release clause reserved solely for foreign teams is a calculated move by Napoli and a crucial detail for any club hoping to sign Victor Osimhen this summer. As the transfer window heats up, this clause could accelerate negotiations and bids from foreign clubs now assured of their eligibility to trigger it.
For Osimhen, it’s an open invitation to take his talent to the biggest stages in European football. For Napoli, it’s the perfect compromise: they retain control, protect their domestic status, and still stand to profit handsomely. The ball is now in the court of Europe’s elite clubs—will they take the shot?
