Blow for Chelsea as Napoli aim to break salary structure to retain Victor Osimhen

Napoli's determination to keep hold of Victor Osimhen has dealt a blow to Chelsea's pursuit of the talented Super Eagles striker, Soccernet.ng reports.

The London club has reportedly made their first move to secure Osimhen's services, proposing a player-plus-cash deal.

However, Napoli values the Nigerian international at a staggering €150 million, indicating their intention to resist any attempts to lure away their prized asset.

Napoli's desire to retain Osimhen stems from their aspirations to defend their Scudetto title and mount a strong challenge in the Champions League next season.

Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis is keen on holding onto the prolific forward, and his renowned negotiating skills may come into play during discussions.

Reports in today's edition of La Repubblica (as per Tutto Napoli) suggest that Napoli is considering a Cavani-style arrangement to retain Osimhen for another season.

The proposed formula involves offering the striker a substantial increase in salary and the promise of a future transfer at the end of next season.

This approach would deviate from Napoli's usual salary structure, which is capped at €3.5 million net. Osimhen's exceptional performances and potential have prompted Napoli to consider this exception to their wage policy.

However, while Napoli is keen to retain Osimhen, they acknowledge the possibility of a significant offer arriving.

In such a scenario, the club would have to evaluate their options and potentially consider a lucrative transfer. With their valuation of Osimhen set at a lofty €150 million, it would require an extraordinary bid to persuade Napoli to part ways with their prized asset.

As negotiations unfold, it remains to be seen whether Chelsea or any other interested party can meet Napoli's steep demands or if the Cavani-style formula will be implemented to keep Osimhen at the Diego Maradona Stadium for another season.

The saga surrounding Osimhen's future promises to be an intriguing subplot of the upcoming transfer window, with Napoli and their president Aurelio De Laurentiis prepared to employ shrewd tactics to secure the best outcome for the club.