Victor Osimhen’s move from Napoli to Chelsea on transfer deadline has failed to materialize and he has no option but to stay at the club.
The Nigeria international had been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge on deadline day but the parties were unable to reach an agreement, leaving the 25-year-old in a difficult position.
According to Italian sports journalist, Fabrizio Romano, negotiations between Napoli and Chelsea broke down late in the window.
“No agreement between Victor Osimhen and Chelsea even after a new proposal was presented two hours ago. Deal completely off for Victor Osimhen. No agreement with Chelsea, and the #CFC delegation is now leaving Napoli.
“If nothing happens from Saudi in the next three days, Osimhen will stay at Napoli but he’s not gonna be part of the first-team squad. Relationship currently completely broken,” Romano wrote on his social media platforms.
Osimhen was asking for a wage package worth over £300,000-a-week, according to Sky Sports.
Chelsea were reportedly ready to continue talks with the striker but their approach went unanswered, leaving the Blues to consider the deal off.
Napoli had also been in negotiations with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli for Osimhen‘s transfer, reportedly for an €80 million proposal.
While Osimhen had agreed on personal terms with Al-Ahli worth a massive €30 million per season, Napoli demanded an extra €5 million in bonuses on top of the €80 million offered, causing the deal to fall through.
Osimhen’s future now appears uncertain. With his relationship with Napoli coach Antonio Conte strained and the club unwilling to pay him a substantial salary while keeping him benched, his options are limited.
There remains a faint hope of a last-minute transfer to Saudi Arabia, as the transfer window in that region remains open until September 2.
