Napoli finally Engage in Swap Talks with Chelsea for Osimhen's sale
Raba
- Chelsea and Napoli are in talks over a potential swap deal involving Victor Osimhen and Romelu Lukaku, with Chelsea willing to add a substantial cash sum to balance the transfer.
- Osimhen demands a permanent move and refuses a pay cut, while Napoli seeks to offload him and sign Lukaku, making this swap deal an ideal scenario for both parties.
In a stunning turn of events, Chelsea and Napoli have initiated discussions regarding a potential swap deal involving Victor Osimhen and Romelu Lukaku. According to Sky Sport Italia, the Blues are willing to exchange Lukaku for Osimhen, accompanied by a substantial cash sum to balance the transfer.
The 25-year-old, who has been Napoli's top target, has expressed his desire for a permanent move, rejecting a loan deal with an option to buy. The Nigerian striker is unwilling to accept a pay cut from his current salary, which he agreed upon with Napoli in December 2023. A loan with an obligation to buy could be the key to unlocking the deal, but Chelsea must be willing to meet Osimhen's wage demands.
Napoli's initial plan was to sell Osimhen for his €130m release clause and reinvest the funds in signing Lukaku. However, the lack of interest in Osimhen and the failure to secure a deal with Atletico Madrid for Samu Omorodion has led to a change in strategy.
With Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal exploring alternative targets, Chelsea's sudden interest in Osimhen has thrown Napoli a lifeline. The Partenopei are eager to offload Osimhen and secure Lukaku's services, making this swap deal an ideal scenario for both parties.
As negotiations unfold, coach Enzo Maresca has urged Chelsea to finalize the deal, recognizing the potential benefits of acquiring Osimhen's services. With the transfer window still open, this sensational swap deal could be one of the blockbuster moves of the summer if it materializes.