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Osimhen gives Chelsea ‘APPROVAL’ but Blues suffer setback in another major transfer
Robin Bairner
- Updated: 23 May 2024 11:11 BST
- 3 min read
Victor Osimhen has given Chelsea the green light over a blockbuster transfer from Napoli to Stamford Bridge this summer.
According to a report, the Nigeria international forward has prioritised the Blues over PSG, where he would replace the Real Madrid-bound Kylian Mbappe.
TeamTalk reports that Osimhen has rejected the Ligue 1 champions for the express reason that he wants to hook up with Chelsea in the meantime.
READ MORE: Why did Chelsea sack Mauricio Pochettino?
STATS
Victor Osimhen
F (CRL)
Napoli
Victor Osimhen
F (CRL)
Napoli
The 25-year-old, who has a €130 million release clause, is said to have already “given his informal approval” to a deal, with significant progress having already been made with regards his contract.
Although Osimhen will only earn “slightly more” at Chelsea than his wage at Napoli, the forward will have a seven-year deal that will run until 2031.
“An agreement on personal terms is not far away and the parties will continue to talk in the coming days,” the report states.
READ MORE: Chelsea target pair who ‘breathe attacking football’ as Pochettino replacement
Osimhen may have given his thumbs up to a deal, but there is still much work to be done in order to prise him from Napoli.
The Serie A side will not accept a deal below his release fee and are demanding a cash sale.
Presently, this is impossible for Chelsea, who will have to make money from sales before spending such a lavish sum.
Pickford hopes stall
Chelsea have also been given a clear sign from Jordan Pickford that he intends to remain with Everton this summer.
The Blues had been linked with the England stopper, but the Premier League veteran has indicated that he will go nowhere.
Taking to social media, Pickford dropped a strong hint he will remain with the Toffees by saying: “Proud of this team and how we overcame the challenges thrown at us during the season! Can’t wait to kick on and build next season! Thanks for your support throughout the season!”
There are, nevertheless, doubts over whether Everton will be sold this summer. Should a takeover fall through, Pickford could be one of those who departs.
