With the Nigerian striker only interested in a permanent switch, Chelsea are now considering a cash plus Lukaku deal for Osimhen
Chelsea have revived their interest in Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, and a potential deal involving Romelu Lukaku plus cash.
With the transfer window nearing its close, both clubs are reportedly eager to seal a deal that will see the strikers move in opposite directions.
Chelsea back in for Osimhen
With only two weeks left in the summer transfer window, Chelsea have renewed their pursuit of Napoli's star striker, hoping to fill their vacancy for a highly-rated attacker.
The Blues are still in the market for a top-tier centre forward, and after cancelling the deal to sign Samu Omorodion, have turned their focus back to the Nigerian international after earlier reports suggested they were no longer interested.
The situation has escalated quickly, with Chelsea's technical staff reportedly giving the green light to move forward with negotiations.
Osimhen, who did not feature in Napoli's recent Coppa Italia match against Modena, trained separately from his teammates, fuelling speculation about his future.
The striker is open to a move to Chelsea, but only permanently, dismissing earlier rumours of a possible loan deal, which now aligns with the Blues’ renewed interest as they look to secure Osimhen as a long-term asset.
Chelsea eye potential Lukaku-Osimhen swap
The discussions between Napoli and Chelsea have now shifted towards a potential swap deal that could see Romelu Lukaku and an undisclosed cash amount head to Napoli, with Osimhen moving in the opposite direction.
Napoli's sporting director, Giovanni Manna, is currently in London to negotiate the terms of the deal. This development comes after Chelsea decided to pull out of a deal for Omorodion, a move that freed up resources and focus for the pursuit of Osimhen.
However, Osimhen's salary expectations, which are reportedly higher than the current wage structure at Chelsea, will also need to be addressed, while Paris Saint-Germain also remain interested in Osimhen.
With the clock ticking, both clubs are under pressure to finalise the deal, ahead of the upcoming season.