Osimhen to Stamford Bridge: Chelsea Plots £112m Raid on Napoli for Nigerian Striker

Napoli’s Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen continues to attract interest from Premier League giants Chelsea, who see the Super Eagles forward as the ideal missing piece

According to reports, Chelsea is keen on triggering the £112m release clause in Victor Osimhen's new contract with Napoli. Osimhen, a 24-year-old striker, is close to finalizing an extension with Napoli until June 2026, as confirmed by club president Aurelio De Laurentiis.

According to The Evening Standard, Chelsea is not deterred by the release clause in Osimhen's contract. 

They are reportedly encouraged by the Nigerian international's openness to a move to Stamford Bridge. Osimhen, inspired by Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, reportedly prefers Chelsea over other clubs like Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

Napoli is already preparing for Osimhen's potential departure by scouting replacements. 

Despite significant spending in the previous transfer window, Chelsea, under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, is confident in its financial capabilities to pursue Osimhen without violating Financial Fair Play rules.

Chelsea is considering various options for a new striker in the January window, with players like Ivan Toney, Viktor Gyokeres, Roony Bardghji, and Antonio Nusa on their list. 

However, Osimhen remains their primary target, with the club ready to offer a lucrative deal exceeding £100,000 per week.

Since his transfer to Napoli from Lille in 2020, Osimhen has emerged as one of Europe's top strikers, scoring 66 goals in 116 appearances. 

He was pivotal in Napoli's Scudetto win last season and continues to perform strongly despite a hamstring injury this term.