Interest in Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has peaked across Europe’s football scene after his vital contributions towards Napoli’s Serie A championship win. Amongst the top interested clubs, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Liverpool are poised to initiate talks with the star player’s representatives.
Napoli, the Italian football powerhouse, has pinned a £130 million tag on their star performer, according to insiders. Osimhen has proven his worth, netting 26 goals in his 32 appearances under coach Luciano Spalletti in the previous Serie A season.
Chelsea, in particular, seems ready to break the bank for the Nigerian talent. Sources from football.london indicate that the Blues might contemplate an offer exceeding £100 million. Their pursuit for a new forward is driven by recent developments – Kai Havertz is seemingly heading towards Arsenal while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s exit appears inevitable.
Furthermore, Chelsea’s returnee from a loan at Inter Milan, Romelu Lukaku, is eyed for a permanent sale rather than another loan tenure, showing Chelsea’s commitment to rebuild their forward line.
The London club has already welcomed Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig, boosting their attack line as Nkunku can serve in the No. 9 role. Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s manager, reportedly plans to reinforce his squad with additions in key areas: a striker, a central midfielder, and a goalkeeper.
Sky Sports Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio quoted Napoli’s demands: “Aurelio De Laurentiis wants €150 million (£128m) for Osimhen.” This value, if met, would top the British transfer record previously set by Chelsea for Enzo Fernandez.
Di Marzio believes that only Chelsea and Man United possess the financial firepower in the Premier League to match Napoli’s demands, thus effectively removing Bayern Munich from the competition.
Journalist Sacha Tavolieri claims that Osimhen is more inclined towards a Premier League move following his successful season at Napoli. The coming week is expected to bring clarity as Chelsea, United, and Liverpool plan to discuss potential deals with the player’s team.
