Long-Awaited Move for Victor Osimhen?
Chelsea has taken the first step towards acquiring Victor Osimhen, a highly coveted Nigerian forward, by initiating contact with Napoli. The Blues have expressed interest in Osimhen for several years, and this latest development suggests their pursuit may finally reach fruition.
This news comes after a challenging season for Chelsea, with Nicolas Jackson leading the attack in the absence of a reliable goalscorer. Neither Armando Broja (loan) nor Deivid Washington (limited playing time) were able to consistently find the net. Previously linked youngsters like Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) also lack the experience Chelsea is seeking.
Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Chelsea has opened preliminary talks with Napoli to explore the possibility of signing Victor Osimhen. Interestingly, Napoli is keen on Romelu Lukaku, and a potential deal involving the Belgian striker in a player-plus-cash swap is on the table.
Swap Deal Redux?
The idea of a swap deal is not entirely new. Di Marzio reveals that Chelsea previously discussed a similar arrangement with Napoli’s incoming sporting director, Giovanni Manna, when Manna was at Juventus. At that time, the proposed swap involved Lukaku for Dusan Vlahovic.
Napoli’s Demands
While Victor Osimhen’s estimated transfer fee is between €68 million and €77 million (£68 million and £77 million), which is a figure Napoli will demand for the deal to proceed.
According to Di Marzio, Napoli insists on including two players in the deal. One player is Romelu Lukaku, who would effectively serve as Osimhen’s replacement at the forefront of Napoli’s attack. The identity of the second player, described as a “young player” from Chelsea, remains undisclosed. It’s unclear whether this would be a permanent transfer or a loan deal. Cesare Casadei, who recently returned to Chelsea from a loan stint at Leicester City, could potentially be a candidate.
The report also highlights Giovanni Manna’s interest in reuniting with Lukaku. Manna, a known admirer of the Belgian striker, previously attempted to sign him for Juventus. He might be looking to replicate the swap deal that was previously discussed for Vlahovic.
The Importance of Player Wishes
Di Marzio concludes by emphasizing that the success of any potential deal hinges on both Osimhen and Lukaku’s willingness to join their respective proposed clubs.
