Victor Osimhen’s failed permanent move away from Napoli seems to have left some in the club’s hierarchy unsettled, even after his eventual loan transfer to Galatasaray.

The Nigerian striker, who had made his desire for a permanent departure from the Italian Serie A side clear earlier in the summer, saw all potential deals for a permanent exit from the Partenopei collapse.

Just when it appeared the ostracised forward would remain with Napoli for the season, Galatasaray made a late loan offer for him.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the deal was a straightforward loan, quickly finalised, allowing Osimhen to join the Turkish club for the rest of the season.

Napoli chief aims dig at Osimhen

In an interview, as reported by Football Italia, the 75-year-old appeared to take a subtle dig at Osimhen while discussing Napoli’s transfer stance.

De Laurentiis stood firm on the club’s decision to offer new contracts to Osimhen and Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, emphasising that players looking to leave must respect the club’s financial investment.

“When we sign players, we know how to develop them and help them reach the top,” he stated.

"The Napoli president also stressed that the club ultimately controls the futures of its players and expects mutual respect for the resources invested.

“Our players will remain at Napoli for as long as we want them to. There’s never an issue when their time here ends; we’ve proven that in the past.”

“We respect what the players want, but they must also respect the investment we’ve made in them,” De Laurentiis concluded.

Osimhen is expected to secure a permanent transfer away from Napoli next summer, with Premier League side Chelsea emerging as one of the top contenders for his signature.