Premier League giant Chelsea are closing in on Napoli FC striker, Victor Osimhen, after reportedly reaching personal terms with the player despite concerns about breaching the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.
The Blues are in search of a clinical striker and are keen to sign Osimhen to bolster their attacking prowess.
According to Italian journalist, Rudy Galetti, the Nigerian superstar has reportedly agreed personal terms with Chelsea, as he is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Osimhen, who joined the Italian champions Napoli FC from French Ligue club, Lille, for a fee in the region of €75million could now command a fee of €120m-€130m as he has impressed during his time in Naples.
The addition of Osimhen could provide a significant boost to Chelsea’s attacking options, especially considering their recent struggles in front of goal despite significant investments in the squad last summer.
However, there are lingering worries about Financial Fair Play regulations and whether Chelsea will need to offload players before completing a deal for Osimhen.
To address these concerns, Chelsea will need to carefully manage their financial position. The club is expected to publish their accounts for the 2022/23 season soon, with estimates suggesting they will fall below the Profit and Sustainability threshold by £37m.
While this indicates some financial stability, there are potential challenges ahead, particularly in the 2023/24 season. Therefore, Chelsea’s transfer activity leading up to the end of the financial year in June may be influenced by their ability to generate revenue through player sales.
Conor Gallagher has been frequently linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge, with clubs like Tottenham Hotspur reportedly interested and a transfer fee of up to £50m mentioned.
Selling academy graduates like Gallagher can significantly improve Chelsea’s finances as these players have no transfer cost, resulting in pure profit for the club.
In addition to Gallagher, Chelsea may need to part ways with two to three more players to secure the signing of Osimhen without jeopardising their financial stability.
