In a stunning development in the ongoing transfer saga, Chelsea have been handed one final opportunity to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen before his €75 million release clause expires in mid-July.
This moment could be decisive for the Blues, who have long targeted Osimhen as a key figure to spearhead their attack.
The urgency of the situation is amplified by the fact that once the clause lapses, Napoli will be free to demand any fee they wish—potentially inflating the price tag to €100 million or more.
Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen is no secret, having tracked the prolific forward for over a year. However, the window to act on the agreed clause is closing rapidly, leaving the London club in a race against time.
According to reports from Italy’s Gazzetta dello Sport, the club must finalize the deal now or risk being priced out completely.
Adding further pressure is the competition from other top clubs across Europe. Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation, both ready to make a move should Chelsea falter.
Osimhen’s form has only boosted his value. After a sensational loan spell at Turkish side Galatasaray—where he scored an impressive 26 goals—he has re-established himself as one of the deadliest strikers in Europe.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca sees Osimhen as the missing piece in his attacking puzzle.
With the Blues aiming to compete strongly across all competitions, including the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups, a top-level striker like Osimhen could be pivotal.
His blistering pace, strength, aggressive style, and clinical finishing are tailor-made for the demands of English football and Chelsea’s tactical approach.
Yet, Chelsea are not the only suitors. Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal are reportedly ready to throw a huge financial offer into the mix, promising Osimhen an astronomical salary that could make him one of the world’s highest-paid footballers.
Galatasaray, too, haven’t given up hope of retaining the Nigerian forward after his successful spell in Turkey, which further complicates matters.
With the mid-July deadline fast approaching, Chelsea must act fast or risk missing out on their long-term target.
A failure to land Osimhen could derail their entire summer transfer strategy, leaving them scrambling for alternatives at a crucial point in their squad rebuilding process.
The tension is mounting, and Chelsea fans are anxiously waiting to see whether the club can pull off this vital signing before time runs out.
