Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen's potential move to Chelsea has received a major boost as Saudi club Al Ahli shifts its focus towards signing Brentford's English international, Ivan Toney, Soccernet.ng reports.
The ongoing transfer battle between Chelsea and Al Ahli has seen both clubs target the same strikers this summer—Osimhen and Toney.
However, with Al Ahli now prioritising Toney, Osimhen remains Chelsea's prime attacking option as the transfer window draws to a close.
: Ivan Toney will sign a contract until 2027 with Al-Ahli, worth €54m. ✍️
(Source: @Santi_J_FM) #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/T9ROCUCKX5
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) August 30, 2024
Reports from the UK suggest that Al Ahli is preparing to complete a medical for Toney, which likely ends their pursuit of Osimhen.
: Ivan Toney will have his Al-Ahli medical this morning.@MirrorDarren | #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/zKrrSWwDwV
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) August 30, 2024
This shift in focus provides Chelsea with a clearer path to securing the Nigerian forward, who has been at the centre of intense speculation.
Just yesterday, Al Ahli was still in discussions with Osimhen's camp, reportedly offering a lucrative deal worth €30-40 million per year.
Talks with Napoli were also underway regarding a transfer fee, but with Toney's potential move to Saudi Arabia, Chelsea’s chances of landing Osimhen have significantly improved.
As Chelsea continues its pursuit, sources indicate that Osimhen has tentatively agreed to a weekly wage of €350,000, a considerable reduction from his initial demand of €500,000.
However, while the door seems open for Chelsea, nothing is confirmed yet, and the situation remains fluid as the summer transfer window enters its final hours.
