Chelsea targets Super Eagles’ Victor Osimhen
Napoli are reportedly set to open discussions with Chelsea about a potential player-plus-cash deal for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen this summer.
The current African Player of the Year is out of favour at the club and seeks a move away from the Italian League.
Chelsea, under the guidance of new manager Enzo Maresca, has been on a major spending spree, revamping their squad with several high-profile signings. This summer’s additions include Tosin Adarabioyo, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, and Renato Veiga.
The Premier League giants have also acquired promising young talents like Omari Kellyman, Caleb Wiley, and Marc Guiu while Brazilian starlet Estevao is also set to join from Palmeiras next year.
Despite these significant acquisitions, the Blues are still actively searching for attacking reinforcements. While Aston Villa’s John Duran, Atletico’s Samu Omoridion, Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez and Lille’s Jonathan David have been linked with potential moves, Chelsea may now pivot towards Victor Osimhen who has been a long-time target.
The potential deal can please Victor Osimhen and Romelu Lukaku
According to renowned transfer guru, Fabrizio Romano, Napoli is exploring options for Osimhen, aware of his expressed desire to leave the Italian club. Napoli is also interested in acquiring Romelu Lukaku, which could facilitate a swap deal involving the Chelsea striker.
While the deal is yet to be confirmed officially, ongoing speculations suggest that the deal might see Victor Osimhen join Chelsea on a one-year loan deal.
Napoli wants to bring in out-of-favour Chelsea striker, Romelu Lukaku as soon as possible. The club’s new coach, Antonio Conte is a big fan of Lukaku as they previously worked together at Inter Milan. Napoli is also open to discussing Osimhen as part of Lukaku talks with Chelsea.
Earlier this month, Victor Osimhen said yes to PSG, but the deal fell through as Napoli wanted PSG midfielder, Kang in-Lee included in the deal. The Nigerian striker is in huge demand as few strikers can deliver as many goals. Victor Osimhen has been linked to Arsenal and potentially plying his trade in Saudi Arabia.
Given Osimhen’s hefty £110 million price tag, Napoli is expected to demand a substantial fee in addition to Lukaku. It remains uncertain whether Chelsea will be willing to meet these terms.
Osimhen has proved his quality over the years and was highly instrumental in leading Napoli to their first league title in 33 years last year. His performance earned him the African Player of the year award for 2023. However, injury spells did not allow him to impact games as much last season.
Chelsea, struggling with goal-scoring issues highlighted by their pre-season performances—including a 2-2 draw with League One side Wrexham and a 4-1 loss to Celtic could see Osimhen as a solution at Stamford Bridge despite having Nicolas Jackson and newly signed, Marc Guiu as their options in that position.
Osimhen would have to contend with breaking the acclaimed “Jersey number 9” Curse for Chelsea if he joins them. However, his wage demands might be a hurdle, as the Blues have been cautious with high-paying contracts this summer.
