In a blow to Chelsea’s transfer plans, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is reportedly close to joining Paris Saint-Germain for €120 million (£103m/$129m).
WHAT HAPPENED?
Osimhen has been on the radar of several top clubs across Europe since his pivotal role in Napoli’s Serie A triumph last season. Despite a slight dip in form in recent months, Osimhen remains highly regarded as one of the premier strikers in world football.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
According to reports from Italian outlet Il Mattino, negotiations between Napoli and PSG are reaching an advanced stage, indicating Osimhen’s imminent transfer to the French capital. PSG are reportedly eager to secure his services swiftly, aiming to outmanoeuvre competitors like Chelsea in the race for his signature. The French side are ready to meet Osimhen’s €120m release clause and offer him an enticing four-year contract worth €13m (£11m/$14m) per season.
DISAPPOINTMENT FOR CHELSEA
For Chelsea, Osimhen was the primary target to bolster their attacking lineup. However, their financial constraints and the urgent need to comply with the Premier League’s Profit & Sustainability Regulations (PSR) forced them to pull out of the race.
WHAT NEXT?
In light of the likely setback in their pursuit of Osimhen, Chelsea must turn their attention to alternative targets to address their need for a world-class number nine. Among the names being considered are RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, Brentford’s Ivan Toney, Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, and Sporting CP hitman Viktor Gyokeres. With Christopher Nkunku still struggling with fitness issues and Nicolas Jackson yet to discover his goalscoring prowess, the Blues have grown adamant about signing a forward to solve their problems in front of goal.
