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By Ebenezer Bajela.
In an attempt order to ward off interests from European clubs and retain one of their most prized assets for at least another season, Napoli are ready to break the club salary structure to keep Nigeria international, Victor Osimhen, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
According to Sunday’s edition of La Repubblica (as per Tutto Napoli), the newly crowned Serie A champions are considering a Cavani-style arrangement to retain Osimhen for another season.
The proposed formula involves offering the striker a substantial increase in salary and the promise of a future transfer at the end of next season.
This approach would deviate from Napoli’s usual salary structure, which is capped at €3.5m net.
Osimhen’s exceptional performances and potential have prompted Napoli to consider this exception to their wage policy.
“The idea is a Cavani-style formula: to renew with a substantial increase and the “promise” of a sale at the end of next season,” the website wrote.
“Osimhen could represent the exception to the rule of wages fixed €3.5m net. The scenario, however, cannot exclude a maxi offer. Napoli has set a very high price, around €150m. If the indecent offer were to arrive, it would be normal to make evaluations.”
The report will come as a big blow to suitors especially Chelsea, who are believed to have their first move to secure Osimhen’s services, proposing a player-plus-cash deal.
The 24-year-old was instrumental to Napoli’s first title win in 33 years, scoring 23 league goals from 29 appearances.
The club are however desperate to keep the striker with the ambition to defend their Scudetto title and mount a strong challenge in the Champions League next season.