Super Eagles Striker Victor Osimhen Salutes Dries Mertens As Belgian Star Leaves Italian Side Napoli

• Victor Osimhen has applauded Dries Mertens who recently left Italian club Napoli as he searches for a new team
• After nine impressive years, the Belgian international who made 396 appearances has left the Partenopei
• President Aurelio De Laurentiis was said to have refused to renew the player’s contract after it expired

Nigerian international Victor Osimhen has referred to Dries Mertens as a legend as the Belgian finally departs the Italian side Napoli.

The 35-year-old joined the Partenopei in 2013, but he has bid farewell to the club this summer transfer window.

Soccernet reports that Mertens had an unforgettable time with the Serie A club after registering 148 goals and 90 assists in 396 appearances.

He was a crucial member of the squad throughout the nine years of his stay, but his career with the club ended abruptly.

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It was gathered that the forward wanted a contract renewal, but Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis refused, stating that he wants to refresh the squad by signing younger players.

Osimhen, who joined the club in 2020, said, as per Napoli Magazine:

“One of the greatest to ever wear the jersey. A legend and more. A real guardian, a brother, a friend.

“I appreciate your advice, your motivation, your jokes. Everything about you is unique. I hope to see you again my friend.”

According to reports, Mertens could remain in Serie A. However, there are also links with Galatasaray, Newcastle and Leeds.

Napoli to keep Osimhen

Agents of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen are reportedly making efforts to discuss his possible transfer with Napoli officials.

The Italian club seem to have decided to retain the player for the forthcoming football season.

Quite a number of top clubs in Europe have made efforts to sign the former Lille man, including Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle United.

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Godwin Okpara sends a warning to Osimhen

Sports Brief earlier reported that former Nigerian international Godwin Okpara has warned Victor Osimhen not to allow fame into his head.

This is coming days after the 23-year-old got sent out of a Napoli training session by manager Luciano Spalletti after he clashed with a player.

It was gathered that Leo Ostigard had made a dangerous tackle on the youngster, who then expressed anger at such an attempt.