Chelsea need to move quickly if they are to land long-term target Victor Osimhen this summer at Stamford Bridge. The Napoli striker’s £64 million (€75m) release clause runs out in mid-July. This means the Blues have a tight timeframe in which to complete the signing before the price goes up.
Osimhen enjoyed goal-scoring form with a goal-laden loan campaign at Galatasaray last season (26 goals in 30 Turkish Super Lig games). He has already indicated that he doesn’t want to remain in Napoli.
He was said to have been over the moon with a reported record contract bid from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, but rejected it. This will further ensure that he will continue at the elite level next season in Europe.
Chelsea have already bolstered their attack by signing Ipswich youngster Liam Delap on a £30m deal. However, the Blues still need to find an experienced goal-scorer to play No. 9, and Osimhen is well up their wanted list.
His pace, power, and finishing ability within the box are exactly what Chelsea have lacked from their No. 9 in recent years. The release clause is for non-Serie A clubs and expires in mid-July.
If the Blues do not act within the stipulated time, they would be forced to return to negotiating with Napoli. The Italian giants would not be unreasonable to demand more money or simply refuse to release him.
Other Clubs Are Interested in Victor Osimhen
Competition is fierce. Juventus, not restricted by the clause, are working behind the scenes to bring Osimhen to Turin. Paris Saint-Germain, Galatasaray, and Liverpool are all monitoring the situation.
Liverpool are reportedly considering a player swap involving Darwin Núñez and Federico Chiesa to meet Napoli’s valuation. Osimhen can be ordered to report to Napoli for pre-season in mid-July if the deal fails.
With Chelsea, this is a real deadline. A rollover after the clause’s termination would give Napoli total control over transfer terms.