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Chelsea in pole to sign Drogba fan Victor

Nizaar Kinsella

CHELSEA are strong contenders to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen this summer.

The 24-year-old Nigerian is aware of interest from the Blues, who see him as a primary target as they pursue another physical forward.

They believe Osimhen, who has scored 25 goals in 29 games this season, would allow them to compete with the firepower of Manchester City goal machine Erling Haaland.

Chelsea’s need is driven by a dismal season in front of goal. They have scored just 29 Premier League goals from 27 games, with Kai Havertz their top scorer with nine goals in 36 matches across all competitions. Manchester United are also interested in Osimhen (left) but Chelsea may have a small emotive edge in that Osimhen grew up idolising Blues legend Didier Drogba and was pictured in the club’s shirt while growing up in poverty in Lagos.

Napoli are notoriously tough negotiators and thought to be asking for a fee in the region of €100million (£88m) to €150m (£132m). Their club model relies on them having to sell at least one star every season.

Osimhen could stretch Chelsea’s finances after they announced a £121m loss this week, which they attributed to Government sanctions on previous owner Roman Abramovich last season.

They are on UEFA’s financial watchlist but insist they remain compliant with the regulations.

Sport

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2023-03-31T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-03-31T07:00:00.0000000Z

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