Napoli manager Antonio Conte has acknowledged his team’s ongoing struggles in front of goal and hinted at the potential return of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. The Italian club has faced back-to-back defeats, losing 3-1 to Lazio in the Coppa Italia and 1-0 to the same team in Serie A, leading to their fall from the top of the league table, now overtaken by Atalanta.
Napoli’s struggles have been compounded by the underperformance of striker Romelu Lukaku, who has managed just five goals in 15 appearances this season. Fans have voiced their disappointment, and Conte has openly expressed frustration with his team’s inability to convert chances.
“We need to improve in this respect. We get there, but the final step is missing. We are working on it,” Conte told TMW after the latest defeat.
While Napoli struggles, Victor Osimhen has been making waves in Turkey, where he is currently on loan with Galatasaray. The Nigerian international has scored 10 goals and provided five assists in 13 appearances, playing a pivotal role in Galatasaray’s six-point lead at the top of the Turkish Super Lig.
Osimhen’s latest goal came in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Sivasspor, where he confidently converted a penalty in the first half. His remarkable form has not gone unnoticed, with clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United reportedly eyeing the striker and considering triggering his €75 million release clause in January.
Despite the rumors, Napoli director Giovanni Manna has dismissed any suggestions of an imminent transfer.
Speaking to DAZN, Manna said, “I already said many times that nobody has talked to us. Victor is owned by Napoli and currently playing for Galatasaray. I think a lot has been said about this, but nothing is happening.”
Osimhen’s success in Turkey has reignited questions about his value to Napoli. His ability to score and create chances could provide the solution to the team’s attacking woes.
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Conte has hinted at the possibility of addressing the team’s offensive issues, which have been a critical factor in their recent slump.
“We need to be more clinical in the final third,” he admitted, further fueling speculation about Osimhen’s potential return to Naples.
Osimhen has quickly become a fan favorite in Turkey, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess and playmaking skills. He has helped Galatasaray maintain their push for a third consecutive league title, solidifying his position as a key player for the Istanbul club.