Chelsea’s Transfer Talks Heat Up: Victor Osimhen on the Radar

Chelsea is making waves in the transfer market as they show interest in signing Napoli‘s star striker, Victor Osimhen. It comes at a time when discussions around Romelu Lukaku potentially heading to Napoli are heating up.

The transfer talk began as Chelsea considered the financial implications of a big signing like Osimhen. Initially, the costs involved deterred them, but with Lukaku possibly leaving for Serie A, there could be a way to revisit the deal.

It seems the clubs are exploring a permanent move for Lukaku to Napoli and are also considering the terms for Osimhen’s transfer to Chelsea. This could either be a full buy or a loan deal with a commitment to purchase, which appears more feasible for Chelsea at the moment.

However, Osimhen’s agent has called the idea of a simple player exchange unrealistic, labeling it «fantasy.» This adds a layer of complexity to the negotiations.

Napoli is open to a deal involving Osimhen after he signed a new contract last December, which included a pay rise and a hefty release clause of over £100 million. Their preference is clear: they want to ensure that if they bring in Lukaku, Osimhen would need to be sold outright.

It’s worth noting that Osimhen currently earns more than Lukaku, making the financials of this deal even trickier. Since joining Napoli in 2020, Osimhen has scored 76 goals in 133 matches, making him a highly sought-after player.

Other clubs are also eyeing Osimhen. PSG is interested, but there’s currently no agreement. Additionally, there’s a buzz from Saudi clubs, though Osimhen isn’t keen on that move just yet and prefers to stay competitive in Europe.

Manoeuvring through the transfer season, both players have been training separately as they await clarity on their futures. Meanwhile, new Napoli coach Antonio Conte is eager to reunite with Lukaku, having managed him at Inter Milan.

In related news, Atletico Madrid is still in discussions with Chelsea about Conor Gallagher. There’s a bit of a gap in what the clubs value him at, with Atletico hoping to negotiate Chelsea down from their £40 million asking price.

July has been a busy month for Chelsea, but there are signs of concern from fans as they look at the team’s recent performances during their US tour. New manager Enzo Maresca acknowledges that his team is still finding its footing, especially after struggling against lesser-known sides, highlighting the need for defensive improvements.