Chelsea Shows Interest in Osimhen Amid Transfer Talks

Chelsea is now in the running to sign Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen from Galatasaray. The Turkish champions are reportedly asking for €150 million for the Nigerian forward, according to reports from Turkey.

This news comes after Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle confirmed that Osimhen will not play in Nigeria’s upcoming friendlies against Poland and Portugal. He said this is due to ongoing transfer talks. His comments sparked new rumors about the 27-year-old's future.

“Victor Osimhen will not be in our friendly matches against Poland and Portugal. Because there may be a possibility of a club change. Therefore, I preferred him to stay at home. If your mind is not 100% here, going out on the field to play does not create a good situation,” Chelle stated.

Osimhen quickly responded, trying to calm the situation. He dismissed the transfer rumors and explained that Chelle’s words were misunderstood.

“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” he posted on Instagram.

“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games and never intended to create any controversy. I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”

The Super Eagles media team also clarified Chelle’s comments after they made headlines.

Even with Osimhen’s denial, many clubs in Europe are still interested in him. Reports have linked him to Manchester United, where he is said to be at the top of their list of strikers for the summer transfer window. Sources close to Osimhen said he would only think about leaving if Galatasaray decides to sell him.

According to Turkish newspaper Sabah, Chelsea has started talks for a possible summer deal. The London club is expected to make formal attempts during the transfer window. However, Galatasaray has made it clear that they will not consider any offer below €150 million for a player they bought from Napoli for €75 million last summer.

On the field, Osimhen had another great season, scoring 15 league goals and providing five assists in 22 matches as Galatasaray held on to the Turkish Super Lig title. He also added seven goals and three assists in the UEFA Champions League as the team reached the round of 16.