Chelsea handed transfer boost as top target ready to leave Serie A club

Victor Osimhen's future at Napoli is uncertain as the Nigerian striker has expressed a desire to leave, according to sporting director Giovanni Manna. Chelsea are keenly observing the situation, aiming to secure the talented forward's services.

Victor Osimhen's stint at Napoli

Victor Osimhen has been a standout performer for Napoli, particularly during the 2022-23 season when he netted an impressive 26 goals, playing a pivotal role in the club's Serie A triumph. However, the following season brought its own set of challenges. Osimhen found himself in a public disagreement with former manager Rudi Garcia and faced ridicule from his own club on social media platforms.

Despite agreeing to a contract extension until 2026, it seems this move was more about safeguarding Osimhen's market value rather than a genuine commitment to Napoli. With a remarkable record of 76 goals and 18 assists in 133 matches, his potential departure would be a significant blow to the club.

Chelsea's pursuit and potential obstacles

Chelsea's interest in Osimhen have been growing, but the path to securing his signature is fraught with challenges. Napoli's president, Aurelio de Laurentiis, is reportedly open to negotiating a transfer for around £85.6 million, although Osimhen's contract includes a release clause of approximately £113 million.

The Blues are considering a swap deal involving Romelu Lukaku, who is also in search of a new club. However, Osimhen's agent, Roberto Calenda, has rejected the idea of a swap or loan deal, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.

Chelsea's active transfer activities and waiting game

Chelsea's pursuit of Osimhen is part of a broader strategy of significant changes at the club. The Blues have been active in the transfer market, having sold Conor Gallagher and acquired Samu Omorodion. This flurry of activity is reminiscent of last summer when key signings like Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia, and Moises Caicedo were completed after the first domestic game.

While Chelsea are eager to add Osimhen to their ranks, they are not currently in a position to meet Napoli's £85.6 million price demands. A potential swap deal involving Lukaku could be a feasible option, but it depends on Napoli's willingness to agree to a deal with the Belgian striker, who has a £38 million buyout clause in his Chelsea contract.

As the transfer window deadline of August 30 approaches, Chelsea are prepared to bide their time. The club remains open to various market possibilities and could finalise a deal for Osimhen at the last moment.

Striked was left out of Coppa Italia match

Osimhen's absence from Napoli's recent matches, including the Coppa Italia first-round win over Modena, has intensified speculation about his imminent departure. It appears unlikely that he will feature in any more Napoli squads while he remains intent on leaving.

With Paris Saint-Germain reportedly cooling their interest in the striker, Chelsea's pursuit of Osimhen is set to continue until the transfer window closes. The coming weeks will be crucial as Chelsea's transfer activities will be closely scrutinised, with Osimhen's potential move being a key focus. Securing the Nigerian international would significantly enhance Chelsea's attacking options.