New negotiations planned: Ambitious Chelsea move could still be on the cards after help from club legends

Fresh talks are reportedly underway with Chelsea to try to finalise the transfer of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, who is keen to join Stamford Bridge, according to Simon Phillips.

The Nigeria international has long been linked with the Blues and Phillips claims they never gave up on his signature, with club legends Didier Drogba and Mikel John Obi both speaking to the player to try and convince him to join.

Osimhen has proven himself to be one of the best strikers in Europe during his time in Serie A, and Phillips claims Chelsea still have a chance of signing him, with the deal described as far from impossible as things stand.

However, the journalist also mentions that CFC also have other names in mind, so it could be that they are willing to look for alternatives if they fail to reach an agreement with Napoli soon.

There is also the question of Osimhen’s salary, with Phillips suggesting the 25-year-old may still not join the team as he may continue to insist on his onerous contractual demands being met.

Osimhen transfer: Chelsea hopes it won’t be over

“The situation hasn’t really changed much because ultimately and the most important thing here is that Osimhen has to accept Chelsea’s wage offer and at the moment negotiations are needed for that to happen,” Phillips said.

“Chelsea’s coaching staff gave the green light to this transfer a few weeks ago, but only if it fits in with what they are willing to pay on the OVERALL budget of the deal. This is an important point, it’s not just about Osimhen’s salary.

“The only thing that has changed regarding our SPTC Sources fear that a new meeting is scheduled between Chelsea and Napoli today/tomorrow, specifically to discuss Osimhen and the possibility of doing so. Chelsea will again insist and resume negotiations.

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“Remember, as we reported here last week, Osimhen wants to join Chelsea – that’s not a problem. But that doesn’t mean he’s just going to take a big pay cut. It has to suit all parties and there’s a lot of negotiation to do.”

“As we have also reported and as has been confirmed by others, Didier Drogba and John Obi Mikel have both been in the ear of Osimhen AND Chelsea to push them both to do the right thing!

“It’s far from impossible to do now and there’s certainly a chance, but it’s still very difficult. And as we reported yesterday, Chelsea are also looking at other strikers instead. But Osimhen is the priority if they can get it done.”