Chelsea is set to accelerate their pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, aiming to make a move in the January transfer window, according to information obtained by 90min.
Despite initially exploring alternative striker options last summer, such as Ivan Toney, Santiago Gimenez, and Lautaro Martinez, Chelsea has maintained a keen interest in Osimhen. The Nigerian international seemed poised to sign a new contract with Napoli, leading Chelsea to consider other targets.
However, recent developments in Osimhen’s contract negotiations with Napoli have created uncertainty. Sources revealed to 90min that the chances of Osimhen agreeing to an extension are slim, providing Chelsea with optimism for a potential move in 2024. While a summer transfer remains the more likely scenario, Chelsea is reportedly ready to challenge Napoli’s stance with a bid in the upcoming January window.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
Chelsea acknowledges that securing the 24-year-old striker may require breaking their transfer record, surpassing the £115m spent on Moises Caicedo from Brighton & Hove Albion in the previous summer.
Napoli, while expressing a desire to retain Osimhen, may find themselves compelled to entertain offers as the striker approaches the final 18 months of his contract.
Chelsea has also been actively scouting Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, a teammate of Osimhen at Napoli, who is currently engaged in discussions regarding his contract extension. Napoli is firm in their stance that they will not allow both of their top assets to leave in the same year, and Osimhen is considered more likely to secure an exit from Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in 2024.
The financial demands set by Napoli will undoubtedly influence Chelsea’s next moves, considering the Blues’ tendency for significant expenditures. Chelsea may need to generate funds through player sales before finalizing any new signings.
In this context, center-back Trevoh Chalobah is listed as available for transfer, and there’s potential for Chelsea to part ways with full-back Ian Maatsen as well. Maatsen, who is entering the final 18 months of his current contract, has yet to commit to an extension.