Chelsea have pulled back from pursuing Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen as they redirect their attention to other attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Blues have been on the lookout for a premier striker for some time now. However, despite strong connections to several targets, including Viktor Gyokeres, Ivan Toney, and Osimhen, nothing came to fruition last summer.
Currently, Osimhen is not seen as a primary target for Chelsea’s summer transfer strategy. While the club was once heavily involved in the race for him, their interest has waned recently.
After an impressive season with Galatasaray, where he netted 28 goals in 32 appearances, Osimhen has drawn the attention of several elite clubs, notably Manchester United.
Chelsea is now prioritizing other potential signings to bolster their attack, with names like Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko moving higher on their list.
On the other hand, Manchester United and Juventus are still in contention for Osimhen. The Red Devils are looking to revamp their attacking lineup, especially with uncertainties surrounding the futures of both Rasmus Hoøjlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
Osimhen is viewed as a high-caliber striker who could take charge of the frontline at Manchester United next season.
Juventus is formulating a strategy to acquire the Napoli star currently on loan at Galatasaray. With the possibility of Dusan Vlahovic departing after the Club World Cup, the Italian side views Osimhen as a perfect replacement.
The strong rapport between Juventus director Cristiano Giuntoli and Osimhen’s agent may facilitate smoother negotiations in the near future.
Chelsea’s recent withdrawal could shift the landscape of the transfer race for the Nigerian forward, whose future remains uncertain. His name continues to be among the most sought-after in the market, and it’s quite possible that other clubs might enter the competition leading up to summer.
Luciano Spalletti has referred to the Nigerian as a ‘great striker’.
