By Milcah Tanimu
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly ended his association with agent Roberto Calenda following a series of unsuccessful transfer negotiations. The fallout between Osimhen and Calenda comes after failed moves to Chelsea and Al Ahli, which had garnered significant attention over the summer.
The dispute appears to have reached a tipping point, with Osimhen taking charge of his own transfer negotiations for a move to Galatasaray, excluding Calenda from the process. This shift marks a significant change in strategy for the Napoli forward, who had previously relied heavily on Calenda.
Calenda’s inability to secure the transfers was a major factor in the fallout. Despite strong defense of Osimhen’s position, including dismissing speculation about moves to Chelsea and Saudi Arabia, the agent was unable to finalize these deals. The complications were further exacerbated by a hefty €130 million release clause in Osimhen’s Napoli contract, which reportedly hindered potential transfers.
The situation has led to criticism from Italian media, with reports suggesting that Osimhen was treated like an unwanted commodity. In a decisive turn, Osimhen is now working with intermediary George Gardi for his Galatasaray move, indicating a likely permanent split from Calenda.
Osimhen’s departure from his agent is not unprecedented; he has previously changed representation during his career, including his moves from Wolfsburg to Lille and Napoli.
