The ‘Complete forward’ Victor Osimhen has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United ever since Cristiano Ronaldo left the club. His exceptional performances lately have also drawn interest from Paris Saint-Germain. Recent rumors suggest that Chelsea too have been plotting a move for the Napoli star. And with every passing game, the Nigerian International’s outstanding performances are likely to invite multiple top clubs to join the race.
CFC’s no.9 curse has continued with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang being the latest victim. The former Arsenal captain has struggled ever since he’s moved to the blue side of London. The supporters expected to Gabonese International to replace Romelu Lukaku – the so called fix to our problems. But unfortunately, he failed miserably and now has been left out of the latest Champions league squad. Initially Fabrizio Romano quoted that Barcelona could not initiate a move due to FIFA rules, however Aubameyang will surely leave Chelsea in 2023. And now according to Matteo Moretto, Los Angeles FC and Chelsea are already in negotiations for Aubameyang.
With Aubameyang destined to leave, CFC will be left with two strikers – David Datro Fofana and Armando Broja. In spite of being an upgrade over Kai Havertz in the centreforward role against Fulham, Fofana has been linked with a one and a half year loan move to Galatasaray. Blues supporters want to see him play more often considering Havertz’ sub-par performances but even if that happens, the Ivorian International is likely to spend the next season on loan for guaranteed minutes. Armando Broja was average at best this season before being hit with a long term injury, and even after his return, he is not expected to start often.
This leaves the West Londoners with no option but to explore the market for a central striker in the summer transfer window. Although the Blues have secured a summer move for Christopher Nkunku, he is not a traditional striker. In his recent interview, he made it clear that his favorite position is close to the goal and behind the striker which is a similar role to that of Joao Felix. So that will be a one in one out situation. And CFC will have to sign a sign a striker which could arguably be the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle.
Why Victor Osimhen may be ideal at Chelsea
Napoli’s unreal campaign has brought the best out of Victor Osimhen this season. The Nigeria International has been nearly averaging a goal per 90 and has proved to be one of the most lethal strikers in the world. To be precise, he has already racked up 17 goals and 4 assists this season which has made him the top goal scorer of the season so far. The Italian side is well aware of the interest he has been generating and will want around £100m to let the striker leave who has been tied down under a contract which expires in 2025. However this would not be an area of concern for the Blues, as Boehly’s team do not might spending when required.
Although Osimhen is not the best dribbler or the most comfortable player on the ball, he has been very exciting when playing against opponents who use a high line of defence this season using his blistering pace. This man exploits any minor space he spots. The Nigerian is known for his movement off the ball. His high intensity pressing through the blindside of the defenders often help in regaining possession and creating big chances out of nothing. He isn’t the tallest of the lot being only around six feet tall. However, he doesn’t let his stature affect his aerial presence, heading in multiple goals over the last few seasons.
What you get is the type of shot map you come to expect from a top striker: lots of attempts, with the vast majority inside the box. With the amount of quality the club’s creative department possesses, a clinical finisher like Osimhen who is known for scoring from minimal chances will definitely thrive.
Chelsea have managed to chip in only 22 goals of their 21 games this season. What disturbs the supporters is the number of chances the side manages to create and still end up finishing none on most of the occasions. This has to stop somewhere and it is obvious that Chels‘ need a significant upgrade over Kai Havertz to lead the line. As of now, Victor Osimhen seems to be the best available option on the market and could be the fix to Chelsea’s problems which should force CFC into pursuing a move in the summer.