Chelsea Edges Closer to Signing Napoli Striker Osimhen in £39m Swap Deal
Chelsea is reportedly nearing a £39m swap deal for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, with the Blues willing to part with two players and a significant sum of money to secure the Nigerian international’s services.
The deal would see out-of-favour striker Romelu Lukaku and young midfielder Cesare Casadei head to Napoli, along with the £39m transfer fee. Napoli boss Antonio Conte, who previously managed Chelsea, is said to be keen on the deal.
Osimhen has been a prolific goal-scorer in Serie A, netting 31 goals in all competitions last season to help Napoli win the title. His impressive form has attracted the attention of several top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Saudi Arabian teams.
Chelsea has already spent heavily this summer, splurging nearly £200m on 12 new players, including Pedro Neto, who joined from Wolves for £54m. The Blues are keen to add more firepower to their attack, and Osimhen’s arrival would provide a significant boost to their squad.
Former Chelsea players John Obi Mikel and Didier Drogba have been in touch with Osimhen, trying to persuade him to join the Blues. Mikel has expressed his excitement about the prospect of Osimhen joining Chelsea, saying it would be “fantastic” for the club.
The deal is not yet done, but Napoli’s sporting director Giovanni Manna has been in London for talks with Chelsea, exploring potential moves for Manchester United’s Scott McTominay and Brighton’s Billy Gilmour.
Osimhen’s potential arrival would add to Chelsea’s already impressive attacking arsenal, which includes the likes of Kai Havertz, Mason Mount, and Christian Pulisic.
Chelsea’s summer transfer window has seen the arrival of 12 new players, including Pedro Neto from Wolves. The Blues are keen to add more firepower to their attack, and Osimhen’s arrival would provide a significant boost to their squad.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.