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Chelsea are reportedly planning to hold talks with the representatives of Manchester United striker target Victor Osimhen to try and find a breakthrough ahead of the transfer window.
United are expected to sign a striker this summer and Osimhen’s name is believed to be a player of interest to the club.
Osimhen has enjoyed another prolific season, this time on loan at Galatasaray, where he has notched 24 goals and five assists in 28 Super League appearances. He has plundered 33 goals in 38 games across all competitions.
The Nigerian superstar is almost certainly guaranteed to be available for transfer, with a return to parent club Napoli ruled out after he tried to engineer an exit 12 months ago. Osimhen came close to signing for Chelsea last summer but a move broke down at the final stages.
The Blues’ interest remains intact and they could rival United for the 26-year-old’s signature.
Despite his impressive stats and clinical finishing, Osimhen’s hefty wage demands are emerging as a major obstacle for potential suitors. However, it seems Chelsea have not entirely given up hope of trying to strike an agreement with the player.
According to FootballTransfers, Chelsea “are set to open crunch talks” with Osimhen’s agents “this week” in an effort to “strike a compromise” over his €12 million-per-year wage demands.
FootballTransfers note about the United target, “Sources have informed us that Osimhen’s salary expectations remain the only major stumbling block preventing him from completing a summer move to Stamford Bridge.”
“The Blues are now exploring potential ways to structure a deal that aligns with their internal wage framework, although Osimhen is unlikely to lower his salary expectations without incentives built into the contract.”
Osimhen is open to the idea of playing at Stamford Bridge next season.
However, Enzo Maresca’s side will not be held to ransom and if middle ground cannot be found, they have alternatives lined up.
Chelsea will turn their attention to Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap – who is also wanted by United – and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
Feature image Ahmad Mora via Getty Images
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