Victor Osimhen's future at Napoli has been cast into doubt after the club excluded him from their Serie A squad list and stripped him of his iconic number 9 jersey.

The Nigerian striker, who has been linked to a move away from the club, will no longer don the coveted number 9 shirt, which has been handed to new signing Romelu Lukaku.

"This decision was made after careful consideration," said Napoli's sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli. "We wish Victor all the best, but we feel it's time for a change."

Osimhen's exclusion from the squad list and loss of his jersey number has sparked speculation about his future at the club.

The striker has been a key player for Napoli, scoring crucial goals and leading the attack with his pace and skill.

"I'm disappointed, but I'm not surprised," Osimhen said. "I know I've been linked to other clubs, and I'm focused on my career. If Napoli no longer needs me, I'll find another club that does."

The move has also sparked a reaction from fans, who are divided on the decision. "Osimhen is a Napoli legend," said one fan. "He deserves better than this." Others, however, welcome the arrival of Lukaku and see the move as a positive step for the club.