Napoli set sights on Gimenez as possible Osimhen replacement

Santiago Gimenez of Feyenoord gestures during the UEFA Champions League group E soccer match between Feyenoord and SS Lazio, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, 25 October 2023. EPA-EFE/OLAF KRAAK

Napoli are still working to agree a new deal with star striker Victor Osimhen but have identified a replacement should the Nigerian decide not to extend his stay.

Osimhen was the standout star in the Partenopei’s historic Scudetto success last season, scoring 26 goals across 32 league games to help the club end their 33-year wait for the league title. He was targeted by a number of clubs in the summer, but none could pay his hefty price tag.

The Nigerian striker now has less than two years left on his deal with Napoli and contract negotiations have been rocky, with no agreement reached on a new salary and off-pitch distractions like the recent TikTok drama causing further tension.

As reported by Daniele Longo of Calciomercato.com, whilst Napoli are still prioritizing a new contract for Osimhen, they’ve already started sounding out a possible replacement should they ultimately fail to agree a new deal.

The top target is Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez, who has been on fire this season for the Dutch side, scoring 15 goals and providing three assists across 11 total appearances.

The Mexican striker is valued at around €40m and Napoli have already been in contact with his entourage to start exploring a move.