Napoli and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen reminded Chelsea of his talents as he bagged a brace in the Super Liga clash with Kayserispor on Sunday.
Osimhen was in talks with the Blues during the summer transfer window as Enzo Maresca searched for alternative forward options to challenge Nicolas Jackson. Napoli proved to be tough negotiators and on deadline day, a move to Saudi Arabia seemed destined for the Nigerian as the Serie A club looked to get the biggest fee possible.
However, the 25-year-old rejected the prospect of moving to the Middle East and, ultimately, it was too late to arrange a move to Stamford Bridge. As the window closed across most of Europe, it appeared that Osimhen would be forced to rot in the reserves with Antonio Conte not open to reintegrating him into his first team.
Fortunately for Osimhen, salvation came in the form of Galatasaray whose transfer window in Turkey closed later. The striker agreed a loan move for the remainder of the season with the caveat that Napoli's asking price would be dropped to £62m and, should one of ten unnamed clubs put a bid in matching this price in January, he would be free to cut his loan stay short and pursue a deal elsewhere.
Despite this, Osimhen has enjoyed himself in Turkey and has now bagged ten goals in 14 appearances for his loan club. Chelsea are believed to be one of the ten teams listed as could Arsenal considering their own needs for a centre-forward.
But, with Jackson scoring for fun so far this season, the Blues may prefer to save their money and invest it elsewhere.
football.london Chelsea WhatsApp channel
Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Want to keep up to date with the breaking and important Chelsea stories whilst on the move? Well now you can!
Click this link to follow the football.london Chelsea WhatsApp channel, where you'll be kept up to date on the latest Blues news wherever you are.
Just remember to turn on the notifications once you've followed, and you won't miss a beat!