3 days ago
Chelsea face a major setback in their pursuit of Victor Osimhen following the striker’s outstanding performance for Galatasaray against Tottenham in the Europa League.
Victor Osimhen celebrated as he scored Galatasaray's second goal in their 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Chelsea’s transfer target delivered a clear statement with this impressive display, emphasizing his current contentment at the Turkish club despite speculation linking him to a Premier League move in January.
The Nigerian striker, on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, was close to joining Chelsea in the summer; however, the transfer was halted due to disagreements over his wage demands. Known as one of Europe’s top strikers, Osimhen scored a first-half brace against Spurs, further increasing interest in his future. His loan deal runs until the season's end, but reports indicate a break clause that would allow him to transfer for £66.6 million in January.
Though rumors of a Premier League move continue, the 25-year-old reaffirmed his commitment to Galatasaray post-match. "I’m here as a Galatasaray player. I’m happy here. Since I came, the Galatasaray fans, the club, I saw how big a family this club is. The way they have treated me and my family in a wonderful manner," Osimhen said. "It’s important to be able to give them my all on the pitch. I’ve seen a lot of speculation linking me out of the club in January; I can state through me now I’m going to be here until the end of the season."
This statement may disappoint Chelsea supporters hoping Osimhen could become the prolific scorer they’ve lacked in recent years. Despite a slight resurgence in Nicolas Jackson’s form, the Blues have struggled to find a striker capable of scoring 20-plus league goals consistently.
Former Chelsea player Eni Aluko lauded Osimhen’s talents after his Thursday night performance, encouraging Chelsea to pursue him. "He’s guaranteed goals. Even though he’s fallen out with Napoli, he scores goals. He’s great in the air, a physical presence. He’s a sort of throwback. I think Arsenal and Chelsea should be looking at him," Aluko shared with TNT Sports.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp also praised Osimhen as an ideal signing when Chelsea’s interest peaked during the summer. Proven goal scorers are a rare and costly find, making Osimhen's form all the more attention-worthy as transfer talks swirl.
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