Chelsea have entered pivotal negotiations with Victor Osimhen’s representatives this week to resolve his €12m-per-year salary demand, which is a key issue standing in the way of a summer transfer for the Nigerian striker.
According to FootballTransfers, the wage package remains the principal stumbling block preventing Osimhen from completing a move to Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2025–26 season.
Although both parties are eager to finalise the deal, aligning on personal terms has proven difficult.
“Osimhen wants to join Chelsea and Chelsea wants to sign Osimhen,” the outlet reported, adding that “a deal is complicated due to his wage demands.”
The report also added that Chelsea are now exploring ways to structure a contract that respects their internal salary framework, possibly by including performance-based incentives.
“The Blues are now exploring potential ways to structure a deal that aligns with their internal wage framework, although Osimhen is unlikely to lower his salary expectations without incentives built into the contract.
“If an agreement can’t be reached, we have been told that Chelsea will pivot to alternative targets,” FootballTransfers reported.
The 25-year-old is widely expected to leave Napoli at the end of the season, with Chelsea leading the chase for his signature.
Despite strong interest from Manchester United and clubs in the Saudi Pro League, the former Lille forward has reportedly identified Stamford Bridge as his preferred destination, especially with the arrival of new manager Enzo Maresca.
However, FootballTransfers cautions that if the Blues are unable to find common ground with Osimhen’s camp, they are prepared to pivot to other striking options, and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap have been identified as contingency targets.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, has enjoyed a prolific season, scoring 33 goals and registering eight assists in 38 appearances across all competitions.
