Osimhen has impressed with his performances on loan at Galatasaray.
Image credit: Smoky (Fan)
Victor Osimhen is once again on Chelsea’s radar—and this time, it might just happen.
After years of speculation and near-misses, the Nigerian striker is reportedly ready to finally make Stamford Bridge his home.
According to former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel, who maintains a close relationship with Osimhen, the 26-year-old remains eager to wear the Blue shirt—a dream that once fell through but could be reignited this summer.
Osimhen came agonizingly close to joining Chelsea in 2024, but the deal collapsed late in negotiations, leading to a surprise loan move to Turkish giants Galatasaray.
However, with a permanent exit from Napoli now on the cards, the door to West London could be swinging open once more.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel shared candid insights into Osimhen’s mindset and aspirations.
“It will be really sad if we don’t get a player who supported us as a kid and wants to play for this football club,” Mikel said. “His idol is [Didier] Drogba. He’ll want to break records, win trophies, and bring Chelsea back to the top.”
Mikel emphasized that Osimhen’s motivation goes beyond the ordinary—it’s personal.
John Mikel Obi like me wants Chelsea to sign Victor Osimhen. pic.twitter.com/7gcn80xzWy
— Frank Khalid OBE (@FrankKhalidUK) April 7, 2025
According to the ex-midfielder, the forward’s desire to follow in Drogba’s footsteps is sincere, and Chelsea could “literally pick up the phone” and reignite the deal.
Despite the optimism, the transfer is far from straightforward.
Osimhen’s reported wage demands—believed to exceed €10 million per year—could prove to be a stumbling block.
Chelsea, now operating under a more stringent wage structure following recent Financial Fair Play concerns, may hesitate to meet such a high salary request.
This financial hurdle has already led Manchester United, another long-time admirer of the striker, to shift their attention elsewhere—reportedly toward Liam Delap.
If Premier League giants can’t meet Osimhen’s expectations, a move to Saudi Arabia remains a possibility, where clubs are more willing to offer lucrative deals.
Still, the story is far from over.
