Chelsea identify 'priority' January deal as Osimhen truth revealed

Cameron Smith

27 Dec 2024 13:00 GMT
3 min read

Victor Osimhen, Chelsea, Galatasaray — © IMAGO

Chelsea have reportedly identified offloading Ben Chilwell as their “priority” target for the January transfer window amid his lack of action under Enzo Maresca.

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Chilwell was expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, after being placed in the Blues’ ‘bomb squad’, but he was unable to secure a move away from the club and he has only made one appearance so far this campaign as a result.

The 28-year-old is yet to be included in a Premier League matchday squad since Maresca’s arrival from Leicester City, and The Athletic claim that selling Chilwell has been named as “the priority” by Chelsea’s hierarchy ahead of the January window.

Back in November, Chilwell fuelled speculation of a mid-season exit when he ‘liked’ an Instagram comment that read: “Exit strategy loading.”

However, while Chelsea are determined to offload the ex-England international, The Sun report that Maresca’s side haven’t received a single offer for Chilwell.

Brentford, Manchester United and a number of Turkish Super Lig clubs were linked with a move for the 28-year-old this summer, however interest has seemingly died down amid his reduced role at Stamford Bridge.

© IMAGO - Chelsea want to sell Ben Chilwell in January

Victor Osimhen to Chelsea?

While Chelsea are determined to sell Chilwell, they are set to be fairly quiet in regards to incomings during the January transfer window, as per The Athletic.

The Blues spent over €230 million on new signings this summer and despite rumours of a mid-season move for Victor Osimhen, they are set to retain faith with their current squad.

Osimhen has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in 2025, following Chelsea’s failure to sign him this year, but The Athletic report that Maresca’s side aren’t expected to pursue the Nigerian in January.