Chelsea is planning to make a move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen in January, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming the club’s interest.
Romano mentioned to Caught Offside that Chelsea could be preparing a £40 million bid for the Napoli forward when the transfer window reopens in January.
However, he clarified that there are currently no negotiations underway, despite reports of some behind-the-scenes activity at Stamford Bridge.
Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray, has made an impressive start in Turkey, scoring twice in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Kasımpaşa last weekend. The 25-year-old’s goals made him the first player in Galatasaray’s history to achieve four or more goal contributions in the first three Süper Lig matches since Bafetimbi Gomis in 2017.
The future of the Nigerian international remains uncertain, as his contract with Napoli expires in July 2025. However, RAI Sport journalist Ciro Venerato reports that a €90 million release clause permits Osimhen to leave Napoli in January, although this clause does not apply to Serie A clubs.
Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen could have significant consequences for their current striker, Nicolas Jackson. The Senegalese forward, who transferred to the London club from Villarreal for £32 million last summer, has impressed in his debut Premier League season, scoring four goals in six matches.
Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Jackson has the potential to be a £150 million player, stating, “If Nicolas Jackson fulfills his potential, he will be a £150 million player. I’m convinced of that.”
Jackson has already outperformed club legend Didier Drogba in his debut season, scoring 14 goals compared to Drogba’s 10 in the 2004/05 Premier League campaign.
Meanwhile, Osimhen has an impressive record, netting 76 goals in 133 appearances for Napoli since his £73 million transfer from Lille in 2020. He was also the top scorer in Serie A for the 2022–23 season, with 26 goals, playing a vital role in Napoli’s title-winning campaign.
Despite the speculation, Galatasaray vice president İbrahim Hatipoğlu recently stated, “There is no possibility of Osimhen leaving the team in January. We are thinking of having him play with us next season as well.” As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Chelsea’s next steps.
The potential acquisition of Osimhen could lead to a reshuffling of the Blues’ attacking lineup, but for now, the Nigerian striker remains focused on his performances for Galatasaray in both domestic and European competitions.
