Chelsea take firm stance amid Osimhen-Lukaku swap deal saga

English Premier League giants Chelsea will not add Romelu Lukaku in a player plus cash bid to sign Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen has been one of the most sought after players in Europe for the last two years. The 25-year-old striker joined Napoli in 2020, and he has grown to be their talisman.

In 133 appearances, the reigning CAF Player of the Year has registered 76 goals and 18 assists for Napoli.

Top clubs like Bayern Munich, Newcastle United, Arsenal, PSG, and Chelsea have been linked with his signature. And it looks likely that Osimhen will leave, as his current deal expires at the end of next season. However, his hefty price-tag has caused his suitors to be skeptical about striking a deal.

Nonetheless, Chelsea are seriously in need of a potential front man, and it seems they will place a bid when the transfer market opens.

Recall that Soccernet.ng had earlier reported that the Blues were looking to offer Napoli Romelu Lukaku plus cash for Osimhen’s services. This is because Antonio Conte is expected to take over at Napoli, and he has a very good relationship with Lukaku.

So it will be a deal that could benefit both parties. However, in a new development, according to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea will not add Lukaku in any deal. Rather, they have valued the Belgian at €30 million and will not accept anything less.

This means that Chelsea could have to cough out up to €130 million to get Osimhen’s services. The Londoners will not be disturbed though, as it will not be the first time they will dole out big money for a player. Nonetheless, it would be a transfer record if the deal works out.