Victor Osimhen could still be headed for Stamford Bridge before the end of the season
Chelsea may re-enter the race for Victor Osimhen in the upcoming January transfer window, following remarks from Napoli director Mauro Meluso. The Nigerian striker, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray, has ignited new speculation about his future, as Napoli appears to be open to the possibility of a permanent transfer.
Osimhen remains available for transfer.
Meluso recently indicated that Osimhen’s exit from Napoli remains a possibility, despite his current loan arrangement with Galatasaray. The striker expressed a desire to leave the Serie A club over the summer, garnering interest from major teams such as Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli. However, a transfer did not materialize, and he ultimately joined Galatasaray on loan.
Meluso mentioned that Osimhen had received offers even before joining Napoli, but chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis opted to reject them to maintain the team’s competitiveness. With the January transfer window approaching, Napoli appears more receptive to the idea of a permanent transfer. “We will see in January,” Meluso hinted, suggesting that Osimhen could depart if the right offer presents itself.
Chelsea’s long-standing interest
Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen is well known, as they were eager to sign the striker during the summer. However, his substantial release clause, exceeding £100 million, posed a significant hurdle in the negotiations.
Nonetheless, Chelsea still requires a clinical striker, and with Osimhen’s future at Napoli remaining uncertain, they could reignite their pursuit in January. Currently on loan at Galatasaray, Osimhen has scored two goals and provided three assists in four appearances this season, although he is sidelined with an injury but expected to return after the international break.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has primarily relied on Nicolas Jackson this season, with the 23-year-old netting four goals and contributing three assists in eight matches. However, the possibility of adding a proven goalscorer like Osimhen to their squad could be appealing for the Blues as they seek to enhance their attack for the second half of the season.
source: ayoola kelechi pulse sport