Napoli manager Antonio Conte has expressed interest in recalling Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen as the club grapples with poor form in front of goal, compounded by Romelu Lukaku’s struggles. Lukaku has scored just five goals in 15 appearances this season, drawing heavy criticism from fans and seemingly losing the confidence of Conte, who voiced concerns about the team’s lack of finishing quality.
Speaking after Napoli’s recent 1-0 Serie A defeat to Lazio, Conte remarked, “We need to improve in this respect. We get there, but the final step is missing. We are working on it.” This loss followed their Copa Italia elimination at the hands of the same opponents, a disastrous week that saw Napoli surrender their top spot in Serie A to Atalanta.
Meanwhile, Osimhen has been in electrifying form on loan at Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray. The 25-year-old has netted 10 goals and provided five assists in 13 matches, propelling his team to the top of the Super Lig with a six-point lead after 14 matches. His latest strike, a composed penalty in Galatasaray’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Sivasspor, has further solidified his status as one of Europe’s most in-form strikers.
The Nigerian international’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with reports linking him to potential moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United. Both clubs are reportedly considering triggering his €75 million release clause in January. However, Napoli director Giovanni Manna dismissed the speculation, insisting, “Victor is owned by Napoli and currently playing for Galatasaray. A lot has been said about this, but nothing is happening.”
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Osimhen’s possible return to Naples could provide the spark Napoli desperately needs in their attack. The Super Eagles forward has demonstrated remarkable consistency and creativity during his stint in Turkey, becoming a pivotal figure in Galatasaray’s campaign for a third consecutive league title.
Conte’s admission that Napoli needs to be “more clinical in the final third” underscores the urgency of addressing their attacking woes. With Osimhen’s proven goal-scoring ability and current form, a recall could not only reignite Napoli’s Serie A title charge but also restore confidence among fans.
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Napoli to see if they make the bold move to bring their star striker back to Italy, potentially altering the course of their season.
