Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has dismissed the possibility of a loan move to Chelsea, as confirmed by his agent.
The Blues must negotiate a permanent transfer for the Nigerian star. Talks between the two clubs have intensified in the last 48 hours.
According to Romano, Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen is genuine, but the striker’s preference is for a permanent transfer, not a loan.
🇳🇬 Osimhen situation from Tuesday video.
◉ Napoli open to involve Victor in Chelsea talks, revealed here Monday.
◉ Player against loan [without mandatory clause].
◉ Osimhen will NOT cut his salary.
◉ He said yes to PSG but stand-by between club.
🇧🇪 Conte only wants Lukaku. pic.twitter.com/Ods3XvqLhd— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 31, 2024
Chelsea outcast Romelu Lukaku could play a pivotal role in this potential transfer.
Lukaku, who impressed during his loan spells at Inter Milan and AS Roma, could be part of a deal that sees him move permanently to Naples.
Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has set a release clause of approximately £110 million for Osimhen.
If Chelsea were to activate Osimhen’s release clause, he would become the club’s record signing, surpassing the £106 million paid for Enzo Fernandez in 2023.
“A blockbuster style deal…” 👀
The Transfer Show discuss Chelsea and Napoli’s deal involving Romelu Lukaku and Victor Osimhen 🤝 pic.twitter.com/fA92MVvS3C
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) July 30, 2024
The 25-year-old forward, who joined Napoli from Lille in 2020 for a club-record fee, has been training separately from the squad amid exit rumours.
Napoli’s recent form has been a significant factor in Osimhen’s desire to leave.
Despite winning the Serie A title just a year ago, the team has struggled, and the lack of European football has added to the striker’s frustration.
Although Osimhen renewed his contract with Napoli in December, he is eager to depart following the club’s underwhelming 10th-place finish in Serie A last season.
The Nigerian international scored 15 goals and provided three assists in 25 league appearances.
