Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is set to join Chelsea in the summer, as both clubs are prepared to agree on a deal. Chelsea has been actively searching for a top center-forward throughout the season, with Osimhen being their primary target. While they have also shown interest in Ivan Toney, his age and high asking price have been seen as obstacles to a move to Stamford Bridge. However, sources have confirmed that Osimhen is likely to make the switch to Chelsea.

 

Osimhen is open to an approach from the London club and is willing to reach a pre-agreement this month, which would finalize the move in the summer. It has been reported that the only way a deal will be agreed upon this window is through a pre-agreement since the Nigerian international recently signed a new contract with Napoli that includes a release clause of around £112 million. Napoli will demand this fee if they were to sanction a transfer this month.

 

Multiple sources in Italy expect some movement to happen in the coming weeks and believe that this will be Osimhen’s last season in the Serie A champions’ jersey. Former Chelsea players Didier Drogba and John Obi-Mikel have been in contact with Osimhen, promoting the project of the club to the striker.

 

There is increasing pressure on Chelsea to make their move as soon as possible, as more clubs are likely to enter the race for Osimhen’s signature in the summer. Mauricio Pochettino’s side experienced a similar situation when they signed Enzo Fernandez from Benfica last summer.

 

If the move goes through, Osimhen will become one of the highest-paid players at Chelsea. Manager Mauricio Pochettino has been urging the board to add more experienced players to his young squad, and acquiring Osimhen comes at a cost. The striker has been in good form for Napoli, scoring seven goals in 13 league games this season and providing two assists. He remains a fan favorite at the club.