Liverpool Could Benefit from Victor Osimhen Sale Without Ever Signing Him
As the summer transfer window heats up, Liverpool may stand to gain significantly from developments surrounding Napoli striker Victor Osimhen—without even signing the Nigerian international.
The Reds, fresh off completing the bulk of their early transfer business, are now entering a phase of squad recalibration under new manager Arne Slot. With several high-profile arrivals, Liverpool are expected to trim their roster, both to maintain balance and potentially unlock further signings.
One player whose future hangs in the balance is Darwin Núñez. The 26-year-old Uruguayan striker has struggled to adapt from Jürgen Klopp’s system to Slot’s more structured tactical setup. Amid doubts over his role in the upcoming season, fresh claims from former Napoli and Uruguay midfielder Walter Gargano suggest Núñez is already waiting for Napoli to make their move.
Napoli’s Transfer Chain Hinges on Osimhen Sale
However, any approach from Napoli depends on one key domino falling: the departure of Victor Osimhen. After a drawn-out saga last summer that ended in a loan move to Galatasaray, Osimhen has returned to Naples with a €75 million (£64m) release clause in place. According to Turkish outlet Fotomac, that clause expires on July 15, potentially giving Napoli more flexibility—but also more uncertainty—in pricing him.
Osimhen’s profile remains strong after an exceptional season, netting 37 goals across all competitions and reminding Europe why he was so heavily sought after after leading Napoli to the 2022/23 Serie A title. Yet, Napoli’s inability to offload him efficiently could stall their own transfer plans, particularly the pursuit of Núñez.
A Chain Reaction: Liverpool Could Cash In
Should Napoli succeed in selling Osimhen—whether for the current clause or a renegotiated price—it would unlock funds that could be immediately reinvested into signing Núñez. Liverpool, eager to streamline their forward line, would benefit by offloading a misfitting asset while maintaining flexibility in attack.
But the Reds might not stop there.
Liverpool’s Next Move: Isak or Ekitike?
With a Núñez exit potentially generating £60–70 million, Liverpool could re-enter the market for a ‘dream’ striker. Their top-tier preference remains Alexander Isak. The Newcastle United forward has scored 62 goals in three seasons, cementing himself as one of the Premier League’s elite finishers. While Newcastle have slapped a nine-figure price tag on Isak, the longer his contract talks stall, the more viable a move becomes.
Alternatively, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike—still just 23 and showing promise—remains a cheaper, high-upside option should Liverpool opt to diversify rather than go all-in on Isak.
The Dominoes Are Set
Liverpool’s next moves may not begin with their own choices but could be triggered by Victor Osimhen’s long-awaited exit. If Napoli secure a deal, Darwin Núñez could follow—and with him, a reshaped Liverpool attack might emerge, anchored by one more marquee signing.
The transfer window is wide open—and Liverpool may soon find themselves at the heart of a major European domino effect.
