Chelsea appear to be closing in on what could be one of the standout signings of the summer transfer window, as negotiations to bring Napoli star striker Victor Osimhen to Stamford Bridge near completion.
According to insiders familiar with the talks, the deal is reportedly just “a phone call and a couple of days” away from being finalized—indicating that the Blues have made significant headway in their determined pursuit of the Nigerian international.
At 25 years old, Osimhen has emerged as one of Europe’s most formidable forwards, and he has long been on Chelsea’s radar.
The club has been searching for a consistent and clinical presence up front, especially after mixed results with younger forwards such as Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku.
While both players have shown promise, Chelsea have lacked a proven, high-level striker capable of consistently delivering goals at the top level.
Osimhen, known for his blistering pace, physicality, and sharp finishing ability, is seen as the ideal solution to those issues.
Discussions between Chelsea and Napoli have reportedly progressed smoothly in recent weeks.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has been firm in his valuation of Osimhen, insisting that he will only part with the striker if his release clause—rumored to be in the region of €120 million—is met.
However, sources suggest Chelsea may have found a way to structure the deal creatively, potentially including performance-based bonuses or staggered payments to make the transfer more financially manageable.
Osimhen has also expressed a desire to take on a new challenge, and the Premier League is believed to be a destination that greatly appeals to him.
After his incredible success in Serie A—including leading Napoli to the 2022/23 league title and finishing as the top scorer—Osimhen is eager to test himself in what many consider the world’s most competitive league.
For Chelsea, this potential signing would mark a significant step forward under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Tasked with rebuilding the team and returning them to Champions League qualification, Maresca is expected to implement a more disciplined and dynamic style of play.
Securing a striker of Osimhen’s caliber would undoubtedly strengthen the squad’s attacking power and signal Chelsea’s renewed ambition under their current project.
As anticipation builds, Chelsea fans are eagerly awaiting official confirmation.
If all goes as expected, Victor Osimhen could soon be unveiled as the newest star to don the Chelsea shirt—ushering in a new era for both player and club as they look to challenge for top honors in the upcoming season.
