John Obi Mikel, a former midfielder for Chelsea, has stated that the Blues came dangerously close to acquiring Victor Osimhen on the day of the transfer deadline.
After it was apparent that Osimhen would not play for Napoli again this season, negotiations on a loan move for the player continued until the very last moments of the summer transfer window without producing any results. As a result, the striker signed a shock deal to Galatasaray.
Osimhen has been under fire from some Chelsea supporters for his supposed part in the discussions' breakdown, but Mikel, a fellow Nigerian who has made no secret of his involvement in trying to get Osimhen to Stamford Bridge, rushed to correct the record.
"I was involved in the deal, as everyone knows," he said to The Obi One Podcast. "I took part in the effort to get Victor Osimhen to the team. Numerous things occurred. I frequently hear people criticising Victor for his avarice and suggesting that he "take a paycut and come to Chelsea," among other things.
"I just want to say this clearly: I have known the boy and the child since day one.
When questioned about claims of weekly pay demands of £500,000, Mikel said, "No, that's bulls**t; he wasn't asking for that." Since I was present during it all, I am aware of what transpired. I am able to assure everyone that is untrue.
We were, to put it mildly, really near. We were only hours away from closing this deal, but there were a few minor obstacles that we were unable to overcome. Naturally, by then it was too late and the medical could not be completed.
But I'm aware of our exact stopping point. I am fully aware of the current status of the deal. If we decide to pick it up again in January, I know precisely where we need to start. I was the one
"I know what Victor wanted, I know what the club offered," Mikel went on. I am aware of our destination. We ultimately reached a consensus. We reached a settlement after both parties had to make concessions. A few minor concerns that we weren't able to resolve over the phone, paperwork, and medicals, among other things. There wasn't much time left.
"In order to close the sale, both parties fulfilled their roles. I applaud Chelsea for that because I could sense their aspirations for the team and how eager Victor was to join the team. He was let down that it did not occur."
The former midfielder for Chelsea continued to state that the Blues' partnership with Osimhen is still
"I know Victor really wanted to come to the club," he remarked. "He still understands that in Europe, he has much to prove. He desires to join Chelsea and assist the team in returning to its rightful position. He is aware of his high goal scoring potential in the Premier League.
"There are no problems [between Osimhen and Chelsea]." We know where we are if we need to pick this up again in January or the summer after that. There are just a few minor elements to work out before the deal is complete. I'm going to make sure I get him to the club, so I won't be sleeping."
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