Victor Osimhen has made a significant decision to part ways with his agent, Roberto Calenda, following a tumultuous transfer period that led him to join Turkish champions Galatasaray on a season-long loan. This move comes after a series of complications surrounding his departure from Napoli.
Osimhen's exit from Napoli, where he had been a key player in their Serie A title-winning season of 2022/23, was marred by issues related to his contract extension and release clause. The striker's contract, extended until 2026 with a substantial release clause, complicated his potential moves to top clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Al-Ahli. As a result, Osimhen faced the prospect of being sidelined at Napoli.
According to Il Matino, the Nigerian forward has dismissed Roberto Calenda from his representation team.
The change in agents comes after Calenda was reportedly sidelined during the negotiations for Osimhen's loan to Galatasaray, with intermediary George Gardi handling the deal. Gardi, known for facilitating transfers between Italian and Turkish clubs, was instrumental in securing this move.Osimhen's new loan deal with Galatasaray includes a break clause allowing him to leave if a top European club makes an offer in January, and he has also negotiated a reduction in his release clause to €75 million. Despite Emmanuel Emenike's suggestion that Osimhen missed an opportunity to join Fenerbahce, Osimhen's move to Galatasaray reflects a fresh start after the turbulent transfer period.
The decision to change agents underscores the complexities and high stakes involved in top-level football transfers, highlighting the critical role agents play in managing player careers.
