By Olaitan Ibrahim
Chelsea’s pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen could extend into the near future, despite recent developments.
Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Blues’ interest in the 25-year-old Nigerian international remains strong.
Chelsea made multiple attempts to secure Osimhen’s signature before the summer transfer window closed for business in England on Friday, August 30.
However, negotiations faltered as the proposed contract terms did not meet the player’s current salary at Napoli.
As a result, Osimhen remained at Napoli, but has since agreed to a loan move to Galatasaray.
In a recent update on his YouTube channel, Romano confirmed that Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen has not waned.
“The appreciation from top clubs around Europe especially from Chelsea remains. Victor Osimhen is going to Galatasaray, fantastic move for Gala to have him, let’s see if he’s going to leave in January or in the summer,” Romano stated.
“So Chelsea tried till the final hours of the summer transfer window to make something happen for Victor Osimhen and what I am told is that the appreciation from Chelsea remains.”
Romano also hinted at the possibility of Chelsea revisiting the transfer in January or next summer.
“Let’s see if they will have a door open, let’s see if they will have the possibility to negotiate with Osimhen, let’s see if they will activate this option in January or the summer,” Romano suggested.
Osimhen has been called up by Nigeria’s interim manager Austin Eguavoen for upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Osimhen is among the 23 players selected for matches against Benin Republic on September 7 in Uyo and Rwanda on September 10 in Kigali.