‘De Laurentiis Right To Block Osimhen’s PSG Move’

Former Napoli sporting director Mauro Meloso has defended Aurelio De Laurentiis’ decision to block Victor Osimhen’s proposed move to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023, insisting the club president acted in the best interests of Napoli at a delicate moment in their history.

At the time, PSG were pushing aggressively to secure the services of the Nigerian striker, who had just spearheaded Napoli’s historic Serie A triumph — their first league title in more than 30 years. Osimhen’s combination of blistering pace, aerial strength and ruthless finishing had established him as one of the most coveted forwards in European football, prompting the French champions to open discussions with his representatives.

Despite the financial appeal of the deal, De Laurentiis refused to sanction the transfer, opting instead to retain his star striker as Napoli prepared to defend their title. Osimhen would remain in Naples for another season before eventually moving to Galatasaray in 2024.

Reflecting on that decision, Meloso argued that the timing made a sale untenable, particularly given the broader changes taking place at the club.

“Should Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia have been sold together to PSG immediately after winning the Scudetto?” he asked during an interview with Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli. “At that point, De Laurentiis did not want to weaken Napoli.”

Meloso acknowledged that, with the benefit of hindsight, some may question whether the club missed a financial opportunity. However, he stressed that selling two of Napoli’s most influential players so soon after their title success would have risked destabilising the squad.

The situation was further complicated by the departures of head coach Luciano Spalletti and sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, both of whom played key roles in the championship-winning campaign. Allowing Osimhen to leave at that juncture, Meloso suggested, could have sent a damaging message to both players and supporters.

“He refused for the good of Napoli,” Meloso added. “But in football, some decisions work out and others do not.”

Ultimately, De Laurentiis prioritised continuity, stability and respect for the club’s achievement over immediate financial gain — a decision Meloso believes was justified given the fragile post-title environment Napoli found themselves navigating.