Naples, Italy — October 6, 2025
Italian prosecutors have opened a formal investigation into Napoli officials, including club President Aurelio De Laurentiis and CEO Andrea Chiavelli, over alleged irregularities in the transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Lille to Napoli.
The probe centers on claims that financial figures in the 2020 transfer deal — reported at around €70 million — were manipulated or misrepresented to meet financial fair play (FFP) standards and tax requirements.
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Prosecutors Seek Trial for Napoli Executives
According to reports from Italian outlets, prosecutors have requested a trial for De Laurentiis and Chiavelli on charges of false accounting and fraudulent documentation.
The investigation reportedly questions the valuations of several lesser-known players included as part of the Osimhen deal — figures that may have been inflated to balance the books.
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Osimhen Speaks Out
Reacting to the controversy, Victor Osimhen has expressed surprise at the revelations, stating that he was never fully aware of the behind-the-scenes dealings during his move from Lille.
“Everything about the contract was shrouded in secrecy,” the Nigerian forward reportedly said. “I just wanted to play football — I didn’t know much about the negotiations or what was happening behind closed doors.”
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Background of the Case
Osimhen’s transfer to Napoli in July 2020 was one of the most expensive in African football history. The deal included a cash payment to Lille and the transfer of four youth players whose valuations have now come under scrutiny.
Italian investigators believe some of those valuations were artificially inflated, possibly to make Napoli’s financial position appear stronger than it was at the time.
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What’s Next
If the case proceeds to trial, it could have serious implications for Napoli’s current management and potentially affect the club’s standing in Serie A.
Meanwhile, Osimhen remains focused on his football career, emphasizing that his only concern has always been his performance on the pitch.
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Wider Implications
This development adds to a growing list of financial investigations in Italian football, echoing similar probes that have previously involved Juventus and other top clubs.
Analysts believe this case could reignite discussions about transparency and governance in football transfers, especially those involving large sums and player exchanges.
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