Former Nigerian international Jonathan Akpoborie has weighed in on the ongoing transfer saga surrounding Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen, who has reportedly fallen out of Antonio Conte’s plans at Napoli after pushing for a move away, has seen interest from potential suitors cool off due to Napoli’s continued rejection of transfer offers.
Speaking exclusively to Brila.net , Akpoborie criticized Napoli’s handling of the matter, labeling it as “football politics.”
“Napoli are just doing football politics. Osimhen needs to be very patient. Someone who is in the limelight has to be calm,” Akpoborie said.
The former Bundesliga forward warned that clubs may be reluctant to pursue Osimhen due to the perception surrounding his conduct at Napoli.
“He needs to be able to control his temper. Everyone is looking at what is happening in Napoli, and they are hesitant to move on with signing Osimhen, so that the same thing would not happen in their team. I am not saying Victor is causing fights, but he is being misunderstood by people, and it is creating issues for him.”
“If his management cannot get him a team in this transfer window, he should change his management,” Akpoborie concluded.
Osimhen is still regarded as one of Europe’s top forwards, but the ongoing back and forth with Napoli has cast doubt over his next destination.
With Napoli refusing to lower their valuation, pressure now mounts on Osimhen to secure a suitable move before the transfer window closes, with Turkish giants Galatasaray currently emerging as the frontrunners for his signature.