Napoli have confirmed the signing of Nigeria forward Victor Osimhen from Lille for a fee that could rise to 80-million Euro.
The 21-year-old had been linked with a host of top European sides are netting 18 goals in Ligue One this season. Should all the clauses in the deal be activated, Osimhen will become the most expensive African player ever.
He had moved to Lille from Belgian side Charleroi last summer to fill the gap left by Nicolas Pepe's departure to Arsenal.
"I think Victor Osimhen is an excellent signing for Napoli," Nigerian football president Amaju Pinnick said of the move. "I’ve followed them from when they had Maradona. Naples is a proud city and also in football terms.
"Osimhen is a source of pride for African football. He’s someone who is disciplined but focused on objectives, and if he wants something, he knows how to get it. He made the right decision for his career. I already believe he’ll receive the right support from the club and its fans.
"Napoli are the right club for him to achieve important results, and Osimhen will always give his best. I’ll say it now: Victor will do everything possible to match and even break the records set by a legend like Maradona.
"I talked to Victor just a few minutes ago, he’s very excited about his new experience and new club. Napoli is a big name in world football. It’ll be a new challenge for him and he told me: ‘President, I’ll make Naples proud'."
