Chelsea to send second star to Napoli to unblock Osimhen deal

8 Aug 2024 17:00 BST
3 min read

Victor Osimhen, Chelsea, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Chelsea will turn to another one of their unwanted stars in the hopes that he will prove enough bait for Napoli to part ways with Victor Osimhen this summer.

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Osimhen has been a long-term target for Chelsea and a deal was thought to be dead due to Napoli’s demands but the transfer has been explored once again this month.

The Nigerian striker was wanted by Paris Saint-Germain but that deal has failed to materialise with Napoli holding out for a fee in excess of €80 million, while the French side were hoping for a loan with an option to buy.

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With Osimhen desperate to leave Napoli this summer, Chelsea have returned to the table knowing that the striker’s departure would also see the Italian outfit likely pursue a deal for Romelu Lukaku.

However, with Chelsea in advanced talks to sign another striker in Samu Omorodion, a deal for Osimhen would prove difficult, despite speculation that both number nines could be brought in.

Any deal for Osimhen would likely involve a swap or a creative transfer for Chelsea to afford Napoli’s asking price and Enzo Maresca’s side could have another player to offer to the Serie A giants.

© IMAGO - Kepa spent last season on loan at Real Madrid.

Kepa wanted by Napoli

According to reports in Italy, Napoli could turn to Kepa Arrizabalaga as a target if they are to replace first-choice goalkeeper Alex Meret this summer.

Meret was initially thought to be a key player for Antonio Conte but, with the 27-year-old entering the final 12 months of his contract, Napoli are considering all options.

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Napoli are unlikely to see Meret depart at this stage in the window but another goalkeeper could still be brought in, with Wojciech Szczesny and Juan Musso also being assessed.

However, with Kepa having no future at Chelsea and also entering the final year of his contract, the Blues are looking to cash in on the Spaniard and could look to use Napoli’s interest as a pathway to sealing a deal for Osimhen.