Napoli could be open to Victor Osimhen being used as part of a deal with Chelsea for Romelu Lukaku according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Blues, who are currently on their pre-season tour of America are in the market for a striker to compete with Nicolas Jackson, and despite signing teenager Marc Guiu from Barcelona they are believed to want another forward.
The club have been linked with a whole host of names across Europe, but as of yet no move has materialised and it’s believed Enzo Maresca is going to assess his options in pre-season before a final decision is taken.
Napoli could be open to Osimhen being part of a Lukaku deal
Earlier in the summer it appeared the Blues had identified Osimhen as their main centre forward target having held long term interest in the Nigerian, but it was subsequently reported that they wouldn’t be pursuing a deal due to the cost and possible concerns over his style of play.
In recent weeks reports have emerged that Chelsea haven’t ruled out moving for Osimhen if Napoli drop their asking price, which currently stands at the £113m release clause.
However, Romano has provided an update which suggests Osimhen to Chelsea could still be a possibility even though he’s said yes to Paris Saint Germain.
🚨🔵 Napoli keep looking for solutions for Victor Osimhen as they want to bring in Romelu Lukaku as soon as possible.
Understand Napoli could also be open to discussing Osimhen as part of Lukaku talks with Chelsea.
Osimhen said yes to PSG, but deal in stand-by between clubs. pic.twitter.com/59nusWEaOL
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 29, 2024
Lukaku, who has a £38m exit clause in his contract is set to return to Chelsea’s Cobham training base to train with the group who haven’t been included on the tour of America, has got his heart set on a reunion with Antonio Conte in Naples.
If Chelsea are still interested in Osimhen it makes sense to try and involve Lukaku in a potential deal because ultimately the Belgian’s future depends on the 25-year-old leaving Napoli.
Despite looking like a move to Stamford Bridge could be dead in the water you can’t help but feel there’s another twist in the Osimhen saga.
Away from Osimhen, the Blues have had multiple bids rejected for Atletico Madrid striker Samu Omordoion, whilst interest in Jhon Duran and Jonathan David has significantly cooled.
