Lille coach, Christophe Galtier has confirmed that Victor Osimhen was yet to arrive in France after the burial of his father in Lagos on June 23.
The Nigeria international was granted compassionate leave by the French Ligue 1 side to enable him join other bereaved members of his family in attending the final funeral rites of Pa Patrick Osimhen who died last month.
However, the Super Eagles who was initially billed to arrive in France on June 24 has been stranded in Nigeria and has not been able to resume pre-season preparations with Lille.
Speaking to reporters at yesterday’s press conference, Galtier explained why his top scorer last season has been absent from training.
The 53-year-old said: “No, he did not come back from Nigeria. He had to arrive today (Friday). But he is blocked by the health crisis because the borders are closed “.
Sport Business Magazine has informed that Lille are prepared to send a private jet to bring back Osimhen but the player and his entourage are yet to receive the green light from the Nigerian authorities.
Meanwhile, President, Gerard Lopez has insisted that the club won’t shift their 80million Euros valuation for the player.
Osimhen has been constantly linked with a move away from the Club after his impressive performances that saw him scored 19 goals last campaign.
Reports claimed that some potential suitors have given up the possibility of signing the player from the French side due to his excessive demand of Lille’s president.
Lopez who has now responded to the reports said Osimhen worth as much as Nicolas Pepe who joined Arsenal for 72million Pounds last summer.
read also: Lille on the hunt for Osimhen’s replacement–Galtier
“Last year, we asked for the same amount for Nicolas Pépé. Some observers thought I set the bar way too high, but later Arsenal paid £ 72 million. Victor (Osimhen) is worth as much,” the Lille President said toldFrench media yesterday.
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