Former Nigeria and Chelsea star John Obi Mikel has revealed his involvement in Chelsea's unsuccessful pursuit of striker Victor Osimhen during the summer transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.
Mikel, who was once a key player at Stamford Bridge, opened up on the behind-the-scenes drama that saw the Blues miss out on their top target.
Chelsea, known for their aggressive recruitment approach, made several signings this summer, including Jadon Sancho, Joao Felix, and Pedro Neto.
However, despite strengthening their attack, the club failed to secure a proven striker — most notably, Osimhen.
The Nigerian striker, currently one of Europe’s hottest properties, was at the centre of intense speculation, with Chelsea pushing hard to bring him to London on deadline day.
Speaking about the saga on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel admitted:
“I mean, a lot happened, and I think it’s an open secret that I was involved in the deal,” he said on his Obi One Podcast.
“I was involved in trying to make sure that I get Victor to Chelsea, yeah, a lot happened, it was very interesting, because I think I hear a lot of people saying this and saying that about Victor and and how greedy he is and stuff like that. Blah, blah blah.
“I just want to say it here that I have known the boy since from the very first day he joined the national team, yeah, my relationship with him has been very, very good.
“I know what he’s capable of, and I just want to say that is absolutely not true.
Chelsea reportedly made several offers for Osimhen, but the deal fell through due to disagreements over wage demands.
The 25-year-old striker held firm on his financial expectations, while Chelsea, determined not to break their wage structure, were unable to meet his terms.
As the window closed, hopes of signing Osimhen faded, and the forward ultimately joined Turkish giants Galatasaray on loan, with a possible break clause in January.
Defending Osimhen against accusations of greed, Mikel was clear in his support of his compatriot:
“Victor is not a greedy boy. He only wants to get what he deserves. And that’s not a problem.
“I know what happened. I was there, in the midst of everything. So I can tell everybody that that is definitely not true.”
Osimhen has since moved past the transfer drama, opening his goal account for the season in Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over Benin in the AFCON qualifiers.
