In a stunning turn of events that’s set the transfer world on fire, Victor Osimhen has reportedly slammed the door shut on Manchester United and Arsenal, leaving Chelsea as his lone Premier League suitor in what could become the most explosive summer signing yet.
The Nigerian hitman, who just wrapped up a sensational loan spell at Galatasaray—netting a staggering 37 goals in 41 games—is believed to have made his mind up amid fierce European competition for his signature. According to Turkish outlet Sabah, Osimhen has been offered an eye-watering £12.8 million annual salary to stay in Turkey, along with £8.5 million in sponsorship incentives. But it doesn’t end there—Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal threw down a jaw-dropping £42.6 million per year deal, putting even Europe’s elite on alert.
Yet, the most shocking revelation is Osimhen’s outright rejection of Manchester United and Arsenal—two clubs long-linked with the prolific forward. Despite United’s glaring need for firepower and Arsenal’s constant search for a reliable No. 9, Osimhen’s camp has reportedly made it clear: “There will be no talks with either.”
Chelsea, on the other hand, is still very much in the race.
“He’s only listening to Chelsea,” insiders claim.
It’s a transfer saga rich in drama and big names, but one where Chelsea could pull off a masterstroke. Why? Because the £100m release clause in Osimhen’s contract with Napoli—signed in December 2023—has dropped to £65 million for clubs outside Italy. Given the Blues’ recent Champions League qualification and involvement in FIFA’s Club World Cup, the West London club now has the financial muscle to go all in.
Antonio Conte, the current Napoli boss, is not expected to welcome Osimhen back after their infamous fallout last year, which saw the striker loaned out instead of reintegrated into the squad that won the Serie A title without him. The damage, it seems, is irreversible.
This twist delivers another gut punch to Manchester United, who have already been snubbed by Viktor Gyokeres, and are scrambling to find alternatives. Their transfer strategy has hit a brick wall again, and fans are growing increasingly frustrated.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, shocked by Osimhen’s apparent disinterest, could now ramp up interest in Gyokeres, as well as Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins, both of whom have also been on Mikel Arteta’s radar.
Still, the story of the summer might just be Osimhen’s potential arrival at Stamford Bridge. The 26-year-old superstar would immediately transform Chelsea’s frontline and deliver the clinical edge they’ve desperately lacked since the days of Didier Drogba.
So, what’s next?
Chelsea fans are already buzzing online, flooding forums and social media with speculation. Some believe a deal is imminent.
“This would be the signing that announces Chelsea are back,” one fan tweeted.
Only time will tell if Chelsea can close the deal—but with Osimhen reportedly blocking all other Premier League avenues, the path to a blockbuster £65 million signing has never looked clearer.
