Chelsea’s pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has been ongoing, but the £110 million release clause has made the transfer challenging.
However, Chelsea may have an unexpected advantage in the deal.
While Paris Saint-Germain is also interested in Osimhen as a replacement for Kylian Mbappe, who recently joined Real Madrid, Napoli’s interest in Chelsea’s Romelu Lukaku and Kepa Arrizabalaga could work in Chelsea’s favor.
Osimhen’s agent has denied rumors of a potential swap deal involving Lukaku, but Napoli’s manager Antonio Conte, who previously worked with Lukaku at Chelsea, is reportedly interested in the Belgian striker.
Discussions have taken place about a possible move, which could benefit Chelsea in their pursuit of Osimhen.
Furthermore, Napoli is also eyeing Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who spent last season on loan at Real Madrid and faces an uncertain future with Chelsea.
With only a year remaining on his contract, Kepa’s market value has decreased, but Napoli’s interest could present an opportunity for Chelsea to strengthen their relationship with the Italian club.
A potential deal involving Lukaku and/or Kepa could offset the cost of Osimhen’s transfer fee, making it more manageable for Chelsea.
Additionally, Chelsea’s recent signing of Filip Jorgensen from Villarreal could make Kepa more expendable, allowing Chelsea to negotiate a better deal with Napoli.
While Osimhen’s contract ensures he will command a hefty fee from either Chelsea or PSG, Napoli’s interest in Chelsea players could give the London club an edge in the transfer negotiations.
If Chelsea can successfully navigate the deal, they will have secured a talented striker in Osimhen while also addressing Napoli’s interest in their own players.
The complex web of transfer negotiations highlights the intricate nature of football deals, where multiple players and clubs are often involved.
Chelsea’s ability to capitalize on Napoli’s interest in their players could ultimately prove decisive in securing Osimhen’s signature and strengthening their squad for the upcoming season.
