- Chelsea’s bid for Victor Osimhen was rejected as they explore a new deal
- The Blues have made it a priority to get the signature of a top striker this summer
- Chelsea will face tough competition if they are to sign Osimhen
What’s happening?
Chelsea’s attempt to secure Nigeria’s international, Victor Osimhen, was reportedly rejected by Napoli as they persist in their efforts to attract the Napoli star to Stamford Bridge this summer.
Chelsea has made acquiring a new striker their primary focus for the summer transfer window, with the 25-year-old Osimhen being their top target. Interestingly, Osimhen has been a fan of Chelsea since a young age, with his role model being the legendary Didier Drogba, who made his mark at the club.
Osimhen had an impressive last season, scoring 26 goals in 32 Serie A games and winning the Serie A Trophy with Napoli. This season, he has carried on his form, already tallying 13 goals in 23 games for Napoli.
READ ALSO: Marcus Rashford Ready to Leave Man Utd as PSG Plans Big Bid
Chelsea faces competition
Alongside Chelsea, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have shown interest in the forward. However, the main hurdle for all parties involved is his hefty price tag.
Osimhen’s Napoli contract includes a release clause of approximately £113 million, which is valid until 2026. While Chelsea is hesitant to pay this hefty fee, they remain steadfast in their pursuit of his signature.
Chelsea is exploring a swap deal
Italian outlet Il Matino reports that Chelsea has offered Napoli Romelu Lukaku, who is currently on loan with Roma, along with an undisclosed fee in exchange for Super Eagles star player Osimhen.
Il Matino states that Napoli has ‘rejected’ this bid, and now Chelsea is considering including another player in a swap deal.
The outlet suggests that Armando Broja, currently on loan with Fulham and also ‘of interest’ to Napoli, will now be offered to the Serie A giants. Despite Chelsea’s efforts to lower the price for Victor Osimhen, Napoli is hesitant to agree to a swap deal.
Napoli wants to make as much money as possible from Osimhen’s sale because many clubs are interested in him.
Will Victor Osimhen fit into Chelsea?
Osimhen has the quality to fit right into Chelsea’s starting lineup. If he maintains his current form in the Serie A League, he could be a game-changer for them.
It’s crucial for Mauricio Pochettino that Chelsea improve their current ninth-place position in the Premier League table next season. Otherwise, he’s likely to lose his job.
