Journalist claims Chelsea are pushing for Napoli star but deal is complicated due to no UCL football
Chelsea are pushing to sign Napoli frontman Victor Osimhen but a lack of UEFA Champions League football is proving problematic.
That is according to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg who claims that the Blues are keen on Osimhen. The 24-year-old striker has been in prolific form, scoring 28 goals in 37 games across competitions.
Plettenberg tweeted regarding Chelsea's potential pursuit of Osimhen. He stated that the Nigerian features at the top of their transfer wishlist:
"Chelsea is still pushing! They want him as their new striker! He’s top of the list. Understand there are price expectations about €110m + Boni at this stage."
The Blues are in need of complying with Financial Fair Play. They have spent over €691.44 million since Todd Boehly became co-owner in May 2022. Plettenberg has explained that the Premier League giants need to sell first. Moreover, their failure to qualify for the Champions League is also an issue:
"But (CFC) has to sell players first and De Laurentiis wants more and at least €150m. Problematic for Chelsea: No Champions League next season."
The west London outfit are expected to confirm Mauricio Pochettino as their new permanent manager in due course. The Argentine boss will be keen to bolster his stagnating attack at Stamford Bridge. The Blues have lacked goals throughout the season and sit 12th in the Premier League. Their top scorer is Kai Havertz with just nine goals in 45 games across competitions.
Osimhen is regarded as one of Europe's most potent goalscorers. He has also garnered interest from Manchester United and PSG, two sides that will be in the Champions League next season.
Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek is certain to leave the club and has held talks with AC Milan
Ruben Loftus-Cheek looks set to leave Chelsea at the end of the season and is in talks with AC Milan, per Football Insider. The English midfielder has a year left on his contract but the Rossonerri are keen on a deal this summer.
The versatile Blues midfielder has made 31 appearances across competitions this season, providing two assists. However, he has never truly nailed down a starting berth in the west Londoners' side.
Milan are believed to be one of several clubs holding an interest in Loftus-Cheek. He could follow his former Blues teammate Fikaro Tomori to the San Siro if he does opt to join Stefan Pioli's side.