Chelsea and Napoli are set to meet today to discuss a potential part-exchange deal that could see Victor Osimhen move to Stamford Bridge permanently, according to TEAMtalk.
Chelsea are considering offering Romelu Lukaku, a top target for Antonio Conte, along with cash to secure the talented Nigerian international.
Reports suggest that personal terms won’t be an issue for Chelsea, as discussions with Osimhen’s agents have already taken place. TEAMtalk reveals that Chelsea’s plan is to have Osimhen take over Lukaku’s place on the wage bill.
Lukaku, 31, currently earns a substantial £325,000 per week, and Chelsea are prepared to offer the same to Osimhen to facilitate his move to London.
Osimhen has been Chelsea’s top striker target for several months, and manager Enzo Maresca has informed club officials that he is eager to see the Napoli star join the squad.
Maresca is looking to add more competition for Nicolas Jackson up front. Although Jackson showed promise last season, he hasn’t been prolific enough to lead Chelsea back to the top of the Premier League.
In addition to the Osimhen deal, Chelsea are also working on re-signing Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid, this time on a permanent basis.
Conte’s desire to bring in Lukaku as Osimhen’s replacement gives Chelsea an edge in negotiations. However, Napoli are also considering other forward targets, such as Kevin Denkey from Cercle Bruges, in case the Lukaku deal falls through.
While there have been rumors that Chelsea might try to bring in Osimhen on loan, the player is keen on a permanent move this summer.
The coming days will be crucial as Napoli and Chelsea work to finalize an agreement that satisfies both sides.
Osimhen, 25, could be a transformative signing for Chelsea as Maresca aims to make his team consistent trophy contenders again. The striker was instrumental in Napoli’s Serie A title win in 2022/23, scoring 26 goals in 32 league appearances, and followed it up with 15 goals in 25 matches last season.
His contract includes a £110 million release clause, but Chelsea hopes that including Lukaku in the deal will allow them to secure Osimhen for a lower fee.
