Osimhen to Man Utd: How Spalletti chaos affects Napoli's transfer plans

Tom Weber

• Updated: 22 May 2023 18:56 BST
• 3 min read

The uncertainty surrounding Luciano Spalletti at Napoli could aid Manchester United's pursuit of Victor Osimhen.

The man who led Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years could be on his way out, according to reports. Indeed, there has been plenty of speculation about the 64-year-old in recent weeks.

Differences of opinion between him and president Aurelio de Laurentiis have repeatedly caused friction and there are rumours of a desire by the Napoli hierarchy of wanting to move on from the experienced coach this summer, even though his contract runs for another year.

READ: These Glazer purchases will RILE Man Utd fans

Now, Spalletti has cryptically spoken about his future, claiming that an announcement is imminent but refusing to give further details.

What did Spalletti say and how will it affect Osimhen?

"The matter has been decided, you don't change your mind every day," the coach said following his side's 3-1 over Inter. "It's a situation that has been brewing for a long time."

"All that needs doing is for it to be announced. I told De Laurentiis what I needed to say. There were no negotiations. After that dinner together, we emerged with everything sorted out."

READ: New Vinicius Jr racism storm strengthens major transfer claim

Reports in Italy claim that what was settled at this dinner was Spalletti's exit. We don't know how Napoli's players like Osimhen feel about this possible departure, but this ongoing chaos, the consequent rebuild needed in the summer given that this team is tailored to Spalletti and the uncertainty over whether they can challenge again next season could convince the Italian side to cash in on some stars while their value is still peaking.

As FootballTransfers exclusively reported at the weekend, Manchester United are working on a deal for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic as Osimhen's price tag is seen as too high, but they may be tempted to capitalise on the uncertainty in the south of Italy and swoop in if a reasonable deal is to be had.

MORE: Messi, Tielemans, De Gea and the best players available on free transfers this summer