Napoli is actively exploring potential replacements for Victor Osimhen as uncertainties surrounding the striker’s future at the club persist.
Earlier this week, Chelsea’s readiness to submit an offer for Osimhen in the upcoming January transfer window, as contract negotiations with Napoli have stalled since the summer. Osimhen’s existing contract extends until the summer of 2025, and Napoli is reportedly seeking a fee that surpasses Chelsea’s record-breaking £115m expenditure on Moises Caicedo.
In anticipation of Osimhen’s potential departure, Napoli is already surveying alternative options. The Serie A champions are closely monitoring the progress of two Nigerian compatriots of Osimhen: Victor Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen and Akor Adams from Montpellier.
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Boniface has made a significant impact in Germany since his move to Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, tallying 11 goals and providing six assists in 17 games this season. The 22-year-old, who earned his debut for Nigeria in September, continues to impress.
In contrast, Adams, who joined Montpellier from Lillestrom in the summer, has netted seven goals in 12 matches this season. Although he is yet to secure a place in the competitive Nigerian squad, the 23-year-old has been earmarked for a potential call-up in the near future.
Napoli’s scope for potential replacements extends beyond these two players. Jonathan David, a Canadian international, has faced challenges meeting his usual prolific standards this season, scoring only five times in 19 games for Lille and providing two assists.
Another player under Napoli’s watchful eye is Belgium striker Lois Openda. The 23-year-old, who left Lens for RB Leipzig at the beginning of the 2023/24 season, has lived up to expectations with an impressive record of 13 goals and three assists in 20 matches for Die Roten Bullen. Openda notably secured a first-half brace in Leipzig’s 3-2 loss to Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday.