HERE WE GO: Chelsea are optimistic about securing a deal as Arsenal, facing financial difficulties, joins the race – reports.
Chelsea and Arsenal are reportedly leading the race to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen after PSG’s recent £80 million offer was turned down.
The Blues initially aimed to add Osimhen to address their number nine issues, but competition from PSG prevented any offers from West London.
Reports indicate Chelsea might contend for the deal, but there is no evidence they will make an offer. Arsenal, currently trailing for his signature, is struggling with financial woes, while PSG is dealing with the aftermath of Killian Mbappe’s £26 million yearly wage.
Despite rumors that Napoli could finalize a deal with Chelsea, especially since manager Antonio Conte is interested in signing Romelu Lukaku, Chelsea may still avoid making an offer due to the high asking price.
Chelsea icon Jose Mourinho commented via Football London that Arsenal should sign Osimhen, considering him one of their outstanding assets. However, he noted that Osimhen’s character might need adjustment if he moves to England.
With Napoli unwilling to lower Osimhen’s asking price, Arsenal might opt out due to wage issues, potentially adding more complications.
Manager Antonio Conte confirmed he plans to keep Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Frank Anguissa, and Stanislav Lobotka during this transfer window, but couldn’t guarantee the same for Osimhen.
“Regarding Osimhen, just as I know the situation with Kvara, Di Lorenzo, Anguissa, and Lobotka, for whom I have placed an absolute veto,” Conte said last month. “I am aware of the situation with Osimhen. There are agreements, and this situation differs from the others. I can only assist. He is a player of the highest level, exceptional, but I cannot engage in any discussion as it is part of previously stated agreements.”