Exclusive: Chelsea 'working in the background' to agree stunning '£40m' signing

Chelsea are working in the background to complete a deal for Napoli star Victor Osimhen, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that there is a “real possibility” the Blues will finally get a deal for the Nigerian striker over the line.

After intense speculation in the summer linking the 25-year-old with a move to either Chelsea or Saudi Arabia, he landed on loan at Galatasaray in the closing stages.

However, Football Insider revealed on 14 September that the Blues could land a January deal thanks to a break clause in the loan deal with the Turkish giants.

Now, sources say the Blues have already begun working towards his signing in a deal which is expected to cost around £40million.

Napoli had been demanding a significantly higher fee during the summer, but with just 18 months left on his deal come January, the Italian outfit will be forced to drop their price.

Sources say Napoli will be “desperate” to receive a decent fee for the striker rather than see him leave for free at the end of next season.

Chelsea remain keen on Victor Osimhen signing in £40m twist

Chelsea have been closely monitoring the striker’s situation despite missing out in the summer, and remain keen on completing a deal when the transfer window opens.

However, they are expected to be joined in their pursuit by a number of elite clubs across Europe and the Middle East when his price tag lowers.

Osimhen is yet to score his first goal for Galatasaray, but has collected four assists in his first three games across all competitions.

The Blues had aimed to find a new number nine to lead the line under Enzo Maresca in the summer, but were ultimately unable to complete a deal.

Nicolas Jackson has enjoyed a fast start to the season under the new boss, scoring four goals and providing two assists in his first five league appearances.

Despite this, the transfer chiefs at Stamford Bridge are still keen to land a deal for Napoli’s superstar striker, with discussions still taking place.

Osimhen scored 17 goals in 32 appearances for the Serie A club last season as they finished a disappointing tenth place in the league.

It was his 31 goals in 39 appearances in the 2022-23 season which sparked initial interest from Chelsea, and they still believe he can replicate that form at Stamford Bridge.

In other news, Mykhaylo Mudryk has made a decision on his long-term future.

For more Chelsea and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

The post Exclusive: Chelsea 'working in the background' to agree stunning '£40m' signing appeared first on Football Insider.