Report: Napoli demand controversial clause to allow Osimhen leave for Galatasaray

Victor Osimhen and Napoli owner Aurelio de Laurentiis | Imago

Report: Napoli demand controversial clause to allow Osimhen leave for Galatasaray

Ayoola Kelechi 12:38 - 13.07.2025

Napoli have reportedly added an unusual clause as part of their demands to allow Victor Osimhen move to Galatasaray

Victor Osimhen’s highly anticipated move from Napoli to Galatasaray is edging closer to completion, but a last-minute twist has complicated the final stages.

While the Nigerian striker has already reached a personal agreement with the Turkish champions, Napoli are refusing to sanction the deal unless their latest, and rather controversial, demand is met.

Check Out: Napoli Sends Strong Warning to Victor Osimhen After Turning Down Galatasaray’s Latest Offer

Napoli demand “anti-Italy” clause to block return to Serie A

Despite Galatasaray’s willingness to meet Napoli’s €75 million valuation, the Italian club is digging in over how the fee will be paid.

Antonio Conte started life at Napoli without Osimhen. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is pushing for fewer installments and full bank guarantees, but now, La Repubblica reports that he’s added an unusual demand: a contractual clause that would forbid Osimhen from joining any Serie A side for the next three seasons.

The clause, informally referred to as the “anti-Italy” clause, would essentially bar the Nigerian forward from lining up against Napoli in Italy until at least the 2028/29 campaign.

Napoli president De Laurentiis || Credit: Sky Sports

De Laurentiis wants this inserted to prevent the possibility of Osimhen strengthening a domestic rival, even indirectly.

Osimhen deal hinges on financial terms and legal safeguards

While Osimhen remains fully committed to a move to Istanbul, where he spent a successful 2024–25 season on loan, the formal agreement between the two clubs is still pending.

Napoli and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen.
Napoli and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen Napoli and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen.

Galatasaray are reportedly comfortable with the total transfer fee but continue to haggle over the payment structure, proposing staggered instalments.

Check Out: Napoli Sends Strong Warning to Victor Osimhen After Turning Down Galatasaray’s Latest Offer

Napoli, on the other hand, are insisting on stronger financial guarantees and full compliance with their “no return to Italy” clause.

Where will Victor Osimhen end up this summer?

With both sides keen to wrap up the deal, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the Nigerian striker finally gets his desired permanent move, or whether De Laurentiis’ hardline approach will scuttle the transfer altogether.