Victor Osimhen to Chelsea transfer update as Enzo Maresca discovers Man United backup plan

Chelsea have been dealt a blow to their hopes of signing Victor Osimhen ahead of the January transfer window. The 25-year-old striker was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer, but a deal collapsed.

football.london understands that the Blues sent Napoli an offer late into the transfer window. It's believed that Chelsea offered to sign Osimhen on a season-long loan, which included obligation-to-buy clause.

Meanwhile, Al-Ahli were also thought to be chasing the Nigeria international, with the Saudi Pro League club presenting him an 'extortionate salary'. Despite the West Londoners' best efforts to wrap up a deadline day deal, Osimhen turned down a move to the Premier League.

Then, Al-Ahli pulled out and signed Ivan Toney from Brentford instead, leaving the frontman scrambling for a new club. So, he joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan; Napoli confirmed they reached an agreement with Osimhen to retain the option to extend his contract until June 2027.

The Nigeria star has featured seven times in the Süper Lig this season, scoring six goals and provide two assists. Playing a crucial role for the Turkish giants, he's fired Galatasaray to the top of the table.

Osimhen has also been key for Okan Buruk's side in the Europa League too, directly contributing towards four goals in three games. Having impressed in Turkey, the striker has continued to be linked with a permanent exit from Napoli in January.

According to The Daily Briefing by Fabrizio Romano, Juventus have recently made contact with their Serie A rivals over a potential deal for Osimhen. The report states that the Old Lady are keen on the Nigerian amid doubts over Dusan Vlahovic’s future.

The Daily Briefing claim that Juventus are also exploring a move for Joshua Zirkzee following his disappointing start to life at Manchester United. It's said that Osimhen could be available for €75m (£62.3m).

The report adds that the West Londoners are also interested in Evan Ferguson and Liam Delap. Chelsea tried to sign a new striker in the summer but failed, wrapping up last minute deals for Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid and Jadon Sancho on loan from Manchester United.

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