Why did PSG reject Victor Osimhen? Reports suggest surprise reason behind snubbing move for Chelsea target
Napoli striker Victor Osimhen's reported moves to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Chelsea from the Serie A club did not materialize on deadline day. The Nigerian forward was all set to leave Naples, but couldn't strike any deal with potential suitors.
The 25-year-old attacker is now left in limbo after finding himself out of favour under new manager Antonio Conte. The Italian side have also signed Romelu Lukaku for the No. 9 spot.
According to reports in L'Equipe, Osimhen's move to PSG collapsed as manager Luis Enrique wasn't in favour of signing the Nigerian to replace the injured Goncalo Ramos.
L'Equipe (via @PSG_Report) report read:
"Some within PSG were pushing to try and go hard to sign Victor Osimhen, especially after Gonçalo Ramos’ injury but in the end, the club decided against it. Luis Enrique wasn’t in favor of signing Osimhen, he rejected Osimhen since he didn’t fit his vision & style."
Ramos' injury and the decision to opt out of signing Osimhen leaves PSG with only Randal Kolo Muani as an option for the striker's role.
PSG target Osimhen's move to Chelsea collapsed on deadline day
The Napoli forward was a target for Premier League side Chelsea as well with reports claiming talks went well into the wee hours on deadline day. An agreement between the club and the player's representatives could not be struck in time, leaving Osimhen uncertain about his future.
Chelsea were reportedly put off by Osimhen's wage demands, which, according to Sky Sports, were in the range of £300,000 per week. The West London club were hesitant to match that and although they kept the communication lines open, their latest offer went unanswered, leading to the deal falling through.
Osimhen is widely regarded as one of the most complete strikers in the world, known for his athleticism, finishing, pace, and strength. Since joining Napoli from Lille, the Nigerian has found the net on 76 occasions in 133 appearances. The 25-year-old has played 35 times for his country, scoring 21 goals in the process.
Chelsea, however, were busy on deadline day as they replaced Raheem Sterling with Jadon Sancho from Manchester United on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy at the end of the season.
With the transfer window shut in Europe, Osimhen is likely to stay at the Serie A club unless a bid from Saudi Arabia comes in before the start of next week.