Italian publication, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Napoli have included Victor Osimhen in their squad that will begin the pre-season in mid-July, despite his imminent move away from the club.

Napoli’s pre-season is expected to begin on July 14, and the Nigerian striker is expected to rejoin his parent club’s teammates for the start of preparation for the new season.

Osimhen, who has been on holiday in Nigeria had returned from a loan spell at Galatasaray, where he scored 37 goals plus eight assists in 41 games across all competitions.

The 26-year-old helped the Turkish giants to a domestic double, winning the Super Lig and the Turkish Cup.

While his next destination is still unknown, Osimhen has already rejected a €40m-a-year offer from Saudi club Al Hilal.

According to Football Italia, the Saudi Pro League side haven’t yet given up on the Partenopei ace, but if they fail to reach an agreement with the striker by mid-July, Osimhen will be formally called up to start the pre-season with the rest of the team.

“Medical tests for Napoli players are scheduled to take place between July 14 and 15, with training sessions in Dimaro, Trentino Alto Adige, from July 17 to 27. After a two-day break, preparation will continue in Castel Di Sangro (Abruzzo) between July 30 and August 14.

“Napoli will soon send a formal email to inform the player about his commitment. The 26-year-old will likely undergo medical tests alongside his teammates, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll train with the rest of the team or separately,” the report stated.

Osimhen’s contract expires in June 2026, but Napoli have an option to extend it to 2027 and the striker has a €75m clause that is not valid for Serie A clubs – that is, interested Italian clubs like Juventus must pay higher than that amount.

The 26-year-old has also been linked with a move to the Premier League, which has been touted as his next destination.

Manchester United seem to be leading the race in that regard while Chelsea have previously held talks with the player. Arsenal didn’t make any concrete offer and Liverpool were also reportedly interested in a player swap plus cash deal for Osimhen.