“Best African player” – Super Eagles star sides with Osimhen’s wage decision after failed Chelsea transfer

Super Eagles and Maccabi Jaifa midfielder, Ugochukwu John Ogu, has sided with Victor Osimhen’s decision to not reduce his wages in a bid to join Chelsea, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Osimhen was linked with a move away from Napoli all summer, but a move failed to materialize, as no European clubs were willing to meet his €130m release clause.

The 25-year-old forward was in negotiations with Chelsea last night, as the Blues were working towards completing the deal before the transfer window slammed shut, but the deal fell through.

Both parties were in disparity over wages, as Enzo Maresca’s side offered Osimhen a base salary of £130,000 per week but with heavy incentives. However, the player rejected this offer as it’ll be a dip from the €246,000 he currently earns weekly in Napoli. The former Wolfsburg striker wanted wages in the region of £330,000, but Chelsea didn’t match that.

Osimhen’s close friend, John Ogu, took to social media to defend his National teammate, claiming he’s worth every penny he demanded.

“I’m talking about Victor Osimhen and someone is telling me about Sancho,Sterling and co because they took pay cut ! Like For real? No disrespect to this players mentioned but I’m talking about the Current African best and the 8th best player in the WORLD of football,” the 36-year-old posted on his X page.

I’m talking about @victorosimhen9 and someone is telling me about Sancho,Sterling and co because they took pay cut !!! Like For real? No disrespect to this players mentioned but I’m talking about the Current African best and the 8th best player in the WORLD of football .

— John Ogu (@ogujohnugo) August 31, 2024

Osimhen faced further punishment with Napoli for trying to force a move away from the club. He has been banned from the first team, and his jersey will be handed over to Romelu Lukaku.