Transfer expert David Ornstein has revealed that a number of factors are likely to prevent Chelsea from signing Victor Osimhen in the summer transfer window.
The Nigeria international is a priority target of some elite European teams despite Napoli’s hefty asking price of €130 million.
Osimhen has been linked with Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and some Saudi clubs, with the player himself hinting at a desire to seek a new challenge at the end of the season.
However, recent reports have cited the Blues as the club most desperate for the 25-year-old’s signature as they aim to address their striking problems ahead of the next season.
Osimhen-Chelsea transfer problems revealed
According to The Athletic’s Ornstein, Chelsea are currently tight on their financials despite their keen interest in Osimhen.
The transfer expert said it is very unlikely that Mauricio Pochettino’s side will sign the Nigerian forward due to the huge transfer fee and salary involved.
As it stands, Napoli are demanding upwards of €130 million, while the striker himself would command a salary in the region of €200,000 if he were to join Chelsea.
“Chelsea, like many clubs, are tight on PSR and therefore will need to cut their cloth accordingly. Today’s financial results showed that but everything I hear suggests they fully expect to remain compliant and will do what it takes to ensure that,” Ornstein said during an interaction with followers of The Athletic.
“It means that when we hear talk of someone like Osimhen being signed this summer, I think that is very unlikely – owing to the transfer fee and salary.”
Osimhen has been in sensational form since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024) in the Ivory Coast.
The Napoli star has scored 13 goals and provided four assists in all competitions this season.
