In a major development in the ongoing transfer saga, Chelsea has one final chance to secure the signing of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen before his €75 million release clause expires in mid-July.
With time rapidly running out, the Premier League giants are under immense pressure to act fast or risk losing the prolific goal-scorer to rival European powerhouses.
Chelsea has been tracking Osimhen for more than a year, identifying him as a key figure in their long-term attacking rebuild. However, their opportunity to sign him at the current release clause is quickly fading.
According to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy, once the clause expires, Napoli will no longer be obligated to sell for €75 million and can name their price, which is expected to rise significantly—potentially to €100 million or even higher.
That development puts Chelsea in a critical situation, forcing the club’s hierarchy to make a quick decision before the window closes on this opportunity.
The competition for Osimhen’s signature is fierce. Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are closely monitoring the situation, both aware of his ability to elevate any squad.
Additionally, Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal is reportedly preparing an extraordinary offer that could make Osimhen one of the highest-paid footballers globally.
Their financial package is said to include an annual salary too large for many European clubs to match, adding a new layer of complexity to Chelsea’s efforts. Galatasaray, where Osimhen recently enjoyed a stellar loan spell, scoring 26 goals, is also interested in keeping him on a permanent basis after his sensational impact in Turkey.
Osimhen is currently regarded as one of the most lethal strikers in world football. His pace, power, and goal-scoring instincts make him the kind of player Chelsea desperately needs to lead their attack.
Manager Enzo Maresca is well aware that a proven striker like Osimhen is crucial if the club hopes to compete across multiple competitions including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup.
Failing to land Osimhen could be disastrous for Chelsea. Missing out on such a key target would likely force the club to shift its transfer strategy entirely and scramble for alternatives at a time when top-tier strikers are in high demand. As the days pass, the urgency grows.
The Blues must now move decisively or risk watching another elite striker slip through their fingers. The next few weeks could define Chelsea’s season—and their ambitions.