Osimhen Close To Chelsea Switch
Super Eagles of Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen is edging closer to a sensational move to Chelsea as the Blues intensify efforts to secure the Napoli striker in a three-player exchange deal.
Chelsea have reportedly emerged as the favourite for Osimhen’s signature, amid competitions from Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
The 25-year-old Nigeria striker has long been linked with a Premier League switch, and his desire to leave Napoli has been much reported.
Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis had initially been firm about suitors offsetting the £113m release clause, but new Napoli coach Antonio Conte’s interest in reuniting with Romelu Lukaku appears to have softened the stance.
Conte’s history with Lukaku from their successful spell at Inter Milan is a major driving force, with Napoli now willing to compromise on their initial financial demands.
According to reports, Chelsea are prepared to offer Lukaku, young midfielder Cesare Casadei, and an additional £39m to bring Osimhen to Stamford Bridge.
Lukaku, currently out of favour and training with Chelsea’s U-21s, has been pushing for an exit, and the inclusion of Casadei, who is valued at £17m, further sweetens the offer for Napoli.
Osimhen’s impressive scoring record in Serie A, including winning the Capocannoniere in the 2022/23 season with 26 goals, has made him a prized target.
However, the 2023/24 campaign was marred by off-field controversies, including a public fallout with former coach Rudi Garcia and being mocked by Napoli’s official TikTok account.
With Napoli finishing a disappointing 10th last season, Osimhen is keen to prove himself on the bigger stage, preferably the Premier League.
Chelsea have struggled to find a reliable 20-goal-a-season striker since the departure of Diego Costa. Lukaku’s return to the club has been underwhelming, while Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja have yet to be fully convinced.
Securing Osimhen would be a major coup for the Blues, who are looking to fix their long-standing issues upfront.
As negotiations reach a crucial stage, all indications suggest that Chelsea may finally land their man, marking what could be their most significant transfer move in recent times.
Punch/Ejiofor Ezeifeoma
