Journalist: How Chelsea Plans to Land Their Top Striker Target | OneFootball

Chelsea’s Bold Move for Osimhen: A Game-Changing Transfer Strategy

In a strategic bid to secure one of the most coveted strikers in the world, Chelsea are considering a creative approach to bring Victor Osimhen to Stamford Bridge. The Nigerian star, currently with Napoli, has been a top target for the Blues for months, and recent developments indicate that a swap deal involving multiple players could be the key to landing the prolific striker. According to Rudy Galetti of TeamTalk, Chelsea are ready to offer two players to lower the hefty €130 million release clause set by Napoli.

The Financial Hurdle and Chelsea’s Tactics

Victor Osimhen’s release clause remains a significant obstacle for Chelsea. Napoli’s initial demand of €130 million has deterred several potential suitors, including the London club. Despite this, Chelsea have maintained their interest, hoping that a player-plus-cash deal could bridge the financial gap. Galetti highlights, “The English club continues to keep informed about the Nigerian striker who, as the days pass, could become less and less expensive.”

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Lukaku and Casadei: Key Players in the Swap Deal

Central to Chelsea’s strategy are Romelu Lukaku and Cesare Casadei. Lukaku’s valuation presents a potential reduction in the overall cost of the transfer. While there is still a valuation gap of around €10 million between Napoli and Chelsea regarding the Belgian striker, the possibility of an agreement is on the horizon. As days go by, these differences might reduce significantly, paving the way for a feasible deal.

Casadei, an Italian midfielder valued at €15-20 million, is another player Chelsea are willing to offer. Napoli see him as a promising reinforcement, especially with the expected departure of Piotr Zielinski. This makes Casadei a valuable bargaining chip in negotiations. “Napoli like a lot the Italian midfielder and consider him as a possible young reinforcement to replace Zielinski’s departure,” notes Galetti.

Apart from Lukaku and Casadei, Chelsea have other players in mind for the swap deal. Trevoh Chalobah and Armando Broja were discussed, but these names haven’t piqued Napoli’s interest. Chalobah, for instance, is less likely to be involved as Napoli are finalising agreements with other centre-backs. Broja, too, does not appeal to the Italian side.

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The Numbers Game

If Napoli reduce their asking price to €100 million, Chelsea could potentially meet this figure with the valuations of Lukaku and Casadei contributing significantly. Lukaku could be valued at around €25-30 million, and Casadei at €15-20 million, leaving Chelsea to pay approximately €50-60 million in cash. This aligns with the £45 million budget Chelsea have earmarked for a new striker.

Osimhen’s Premier League Dream

Victor Osimhen’s desire to play in the Premier League is no secret. The Nigerian forward is eager to start a new chapter in his career, and a move to Chelsea would fulfil his ambitions. The gentleman’s agreement with Napoli’s President De Laurentiis ensures that Osimhen will leave this summer, but the exact terms are still up for negotiation. “Osimhen, for his part, can’t wait to start a new adventure,” says Galetti, reflecting the striker’s readiness for a fresh challenge.

Potential Outcomes and Future Prospects

While no direct contact between the clubs has been made recently, Chelsea remain vigilant and are continuously gathering information. Other options, such as Jhon Duran and Samu Omorodion, are also being considered, though these alternatives do not seem as promising. Chelsea’s focus remains on Osimhen, whose goal-scoring prowess could significantly bolster their attacking lineup for the upcoming season.

In conclusion, Chelsea’s innovative approach to signing Victor Osimhen underscores their determination to secure top talent while navigating financial constraints. By leveraging player swaps and strategic negotiations, they aim to bring a game-changing striker to Stamford Bridge. As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Chelsea and Napoli to see if this ambitious deal comes to fruition.