Chelsea have identified Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as a potential summer transfer target as they look to bolster their attack, though Manchester United are also keen on his services
Chelsea could beat another Premier League rival in the transfer market as they plot a move for Victor Osimhen.
The Blues usurped London neighbours Arsenal in the January window by signing Mykhaylo Mudryk, who had looked destined to move to the Emirates before those at Stamford Bridge seized on some indecision to pay a whopping £89m to secure the Ukrainian’s services.
Now Manchester United could be on the receiving end of their free-spending nature. Osimhen has enjoyed a stellar campaign in Italy with Napoli and is set to finish the season as a Serie A champion. The Red Devils’ interest in the Nigerian dates back to his time in Lille and they’re keen on adding more firepower this summer.
Chelsea though have a similar ambition and have identified Osimhen as a key target who can help them compete with their rivals, reports the Evening Standard. The Blues are already set to welcome Christopher Nkunku next season, but goals have been very much an issue for Graham Potter’s side this term.
The Napoli star has told Sport1 : “I don’t know what the future holds. I think I’m on the right track. At the end of the season, I will sit down with my agents and discuss everything. I will also be in talks with the club. I am incredibly grateful to Naples. We will find a good solution together.”
The Italian side have shown themselves willing to sell their top stars for the right price, but often demand top dollar. Only last summer Chelsea signed Kalidou Koulibaly from them, but to part with Osimhen the Serie A side are likely to want north of £90m
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Victor Osimhen has been in sensational form this term ( Image: Giuseppe Maffia/REX/Shutterstock)
No player has hit double figures for the Blues with the capture of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the summer not working out. Chelsea are among the league’s lowest scorers, which explains their position in the table, and know they need to address the issue if they want to be winning silverware.
United themselves want to add a No 9 having relied on the goals of Marcus Rashford this term, despite the player being more suited to a wide role. Erik ten Hag will be desperate to bring in a striker and Harry Kane is among their prime targets – which means potentially missing out on Osimhen wouldn’t be a problem.
The Tottenham striker has just over a year to run on his deal in north London and has previously pushed for a move away from north London. Having recently etched himself into the north London record books – and with his trophy cabinet still empty – the Englishman could push for the exit door once again. United had hoped Anthony Martial would lead the line but he has spent much of the season out injured and alternatives are now being sought.
Source: mirror.co.uk
