Rumors suggest that Napoli is open to discussions with Chelsea regarding a potential player-plus-cash agreement for Victor Osimhen during the upcoming transfer window. This comes as Napoli looks to find a resolution for the Nigerian striker’s future.
Chelsea has been actively reinforcing their squad this summer under the management of Enzo Maresca, with several new additions, including Tosin Adarabioyo, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Renato Veiga. The club has also secured promising talents such as Omari Kellyman, Caleb Wiley, and Marc Guiu. Additionally, Brazilian prodigy Estevao is expected to join from Palmeiras next season.
Despite these signings, Chelsea is still in the market for attacking options. While rumors have linked the club to John Dhuran from Aston Villa and Jonathan David from Lille, the possibility of a deal for long-time target Osimhen is now gaining traction.
According to renowned transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano, Napoli is actively seeking solutions for Osimhen’s situation, acknowledging his desire to depart. The Italian club is also interested in acquiring Romelu Lukaku, potentially setting the stage for a swap between the two clubs.
Should negotiations progress, Napoli is expected to request an additional fee along with Lukaku, considering Osimhen’s substantial £110m valuation. Whether Chelsea will entertain this proposition remains uncertain.
Osimhen has expressed his willingness to leave Napoli and has already greenlit a move to Paris Saint-Germain. However, talks between Napoli and the French side have hit a roadblock due to disagreements over the transfer terms.
With new Napoli boss Antonio Conte excluding Osimhen from his plans and eyeing Lukaku as his replacement, the forward’s departure seems imminent. This has led to speculation about potential destinations, with PSG, Chelsea, and even Arsenal being mentioned.
Chelsea could leverage this situation to address their scoring challenges, especially after lackluster performances in pre-season matches against Wrexham FC and Celtic.
However, Osimhen’s wage demands might present a hurdle for Chelsea, as the club has been cautious about offering lucrative contracts this transfer window.