Former Italian international, Giuseppe Galderisi, says Napoli will face difficulties in finding a suitable replacement for Nigeria international Victor Osinhen in Europe.
The 25-year-old forward impact on Napoli’s success has been immense, notably contributing 26 goals to their Serie A triumph last season.
Osimhen consistent brilliance has attracted interest from European powerhouses like Arsenal, Chelsea, and PSG, hinting at an impending transfer.
The Nigerian striker seems destined to leave the Partenopei in the summer, having signed a new contract back in December that includes a €130million release clause, giving him a way out at the end of the season.
As Napoli prepares for a potential departure, they anticipate a substantial transfer fee, with Osimhen’s valuation reaching around €130 million.
The windfall offers the club an opportunity to reinvest in a new striker, with names such as Romelu Lukaku, Joshua Zirkzee, Viktor Gyokeres, and Jonathan David being floated as potential replacements. However, Napoli remains undecided on a clear frontrunner.
Galderisi acknowledges Osimhen’s unique skill set, emphasizing the challenge of finding a direct replacement, noting that despite Scamacca’s qualities, he is not good enough to replace Osimhen.
“You can’t find another Osimhen in Europe, he has the characteristics that I don’t see around Europe. You find another Osimhen, he commands respect in the penalty area,” Galderisi said, as quoted by Calcio Napoli.
“Replacing Osimhen with Scamacca is a big risk. Osimhen moves with ease, he always makes the right movement.
“Scamacca is doing extraordinary things this year, but he is different from Osimhen. All you have to do is serve him and he scores goals.
While Scamacca has impressed this season, Galderisi believes that Osimhen’s abilities are unmatched in Europe.
He underscores the significance of the upcoming European Championship for Scamacca’s development but cautions against viewing him as a like-for-like replacement for Osimhen.
Osimhen continues to shine in Serie A, notching 15 goals in 23 appearances this season despite missing 11 matches due to injuries and his participation in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
The potential departure of Osimhen is expected to prompt Napoli to make a significant investment in a new striker. This opens the door for another young, high-profile forward to join Napoli and fill the void left by the Nigerian star.
