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Napoli is said to be ready to engage in talks with Chelsea over a player-plus-cash deal for Victor Osimhen this summer.
The Italian club seek solutions for the Nigerian striker’s situation.
The Blues have been on a spending spree this summer, with Enzo Maresca overseeing a significant squad overhaul at Stamford Bridge.
New signings include Tosin Adarabioyo, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Renato Veiga, alongside promising youngsters Omari Kellyman, Caleb Wiley, and Marc Guiu. Brazilian wonderkid Estevao is also set to join from Palmeiras next year.
While Aston Villa’s John Dhuran and Lille’s Jonathan David have been linked with moves, a potential deal for long-time target Osimhen may now be on the cards.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Napoli are “looking for solutions” regarding Osimhen, aware of his desire to leave. The Italian club are also keen on bringing in Romelu Lukaku, which could pave the way for a swap deal.
Napoli would expect a fee in addition to Lukaku, given Osimhen’s £110m price tag, and it remains to be seen if Chelsea are willing to explore this option.
Osimhen has made no secret of his desire to leave Naples and has already approved a move to Paris Saint-Germain. However, negotiations between Napoli and the Ligue 1 side have stalled due to disagreements over the transfer fee.
The Nigeria striker is reportedly free to leave Napoli, where new manager Antonio Conte has made it clear that he is not part of his plans, with the Italian eager to bring in Lukaku as a replacement and wants the situation resolved quickly.
However, Osimhen’s salary demand may pose challenge, following the Blues being cautious about offering robust contracts this summer.
