Chelsea legend Joe Cole has criticized Victor Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, for his role in the striker missing out on a move to a major European club during the summer transfer window.
Despite Chelsea and Saudi club Al-Ahli making late bids, a transfer failed to materialize. French club Paris Saint-Germain was also rumored, but no concrete offers came through.
Frustrations Mount for Osimhen at Napoli
Last December, Osimhen signed an extension with Napoli that included a €130 million release clause for foreign clubs.
However, a recent TikTok incident deeply affected his mental health, pushing him toward the decision to leave Napoli.
Even with Napoli manager Antonio Conte urging him to stay, the situation ultimately led to Osimhen seeking an exit.
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Chelsea’s Offer Complicated by Financial Factors
Chelsea explored using Romelu Lukaku in a swap deal, but the arrangement stalled. Osimhen later declined a loan move to Chelsea due to high taxes, National Health Service contributions, and image rights fees in the UK, making the deal less financially appealing.
Success at Galatasaray Amid Criticism
Frozen out of Napoli’s first team, Osimhen completed a surprise transfer to Turkish champions Galatasaray, where he has quickly impressed, with six goals and four assists in eight games.
Joe Cole told TNT Sports, “There’s so many big clubs calling out for a striker. I blame Victor Osimhen’s agent, as he shouldn’t be at Galatasaray; he should be at a top club in Europe.”
Victor Osimhen will hope to continue his fine form with Galatasaray after bagging a brace as they saw off Tottenham in the Europa League on Thursday night.
