Transfer tussle: Osimhen’s reluctance stalls Chelsea and Napoli swap deal

Victor Osimhen’s reluctance to move on loan has stalled the potential swap deal between Chelsea and Napoli involving Romelu Lukaku, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The transfer tussle on the Nigerian International’s exit from the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium has taken centre stage in the 2024 Summer transfer window.

However, transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, has provided an update on the transfer situation involving the Super Eagles star. He clarified that a deal is not imminent and will not be resolved this week.

“The feeling is that, today, [a loan move], it is not happening, but any other club still has a chance, but Chelsea can still find a way.

“So, I don’t think it is going to be a situation resolved tonight, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, I think it’s going to take some time.” he said on his Social media channel.

Fabrizio further noted that Napoli and Chelsea have discussed a swap involving Osimhen and Romelu Lukaku. Napoli are keen on signing Lukaku, and the club and their manager, Antonio Conte, have expressed strong interest in him.

Osimhen has shown interest in joining PSG, but no agreement has been reached between PSG and Napoli. Meanwhile, Chelsea has considered including Osimhen in their negotiations with Napoli for Lukaku.

However, Osimhen’s agent informed Chelsea that the player was not interested in a loan move and did not want to return to Napoli after a season.

The situation remains unresolved, and it may take some time to reach a conclusion. Chelsea and Napoli will continue their conversations, but the main issue lies with Osimhen’s reluctance to go on loan.

Earlier, rumours suggested that Osimhen might join Chelsea on loan. In response, Roberto Calenda addressed the situation on social media, criticising the portrayal of his client as merely a tradeable asset, especially considering Osimhen’s status as the 2023 African Footballer of the Year.