Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has made it clear that he is not interested in a loan move away from Diego Maradona Stadium this summer, despite Chelsea’s interest.
Chelsea have made several new signings this summer following the arrival of manager Enzo Maresca. The Blues recently added Samu Omorodion to their squad in a busy transfer window. However, they are still in search of a top striker to lead their line, with Osimhen being a prominent target.
Their pursuit of the 25-year-old has encountered a challenge, as Osimhen is reportedly unwilling to leave on a loan deal, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
“Will Chelsea go for Osimhen? I told you for Osimhen, in many different ways that there are no changes,” Romano explained on Playback on Thursday.
“Nothing is happening today. People are saying that Chelsea left the race for Osimhen; I’m not aware of this. People are saying that Chelsea are accelerating for Osimhen; I’m not aware of this. People are saying that Chelsea are getting closer for Osimhen on a loan; I’m not aware of this.
“No changes with Osimhen. As of today (Thursday), the interest remains, but Osimhen doesn’t want to go on loan. What happens in one week, two weeks, or three weeks, we will see. We can’t predict the future, but as of today, nothing is happening with Osimhen.”
Osimhen’s reluctance to consider a loan move complicates Chelsea’s efforts, as the club is reportedly unwilling to meet his hefty release clause.
With Armando Broja and David Datro Fofana likely to depart, Chelsea may be left with only Nicolas Jackson and Omorodion as their recognized strikers, increasing their need for an experienced forward like Osimhen.
A proven striker like Osimhen would be ideal for the West Londoners, as the others are either too inexperienced or not the finished product to lead the line for the Premier League giants.
