Chelsea’s efforts to sign Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli FC have hit a significant roadblock due to the player’s substantial wage demands, according to reports.
The 25-year-old forward is reportedly seeking a contract that would earn him £500,000 per week, a figure that would make him the highest-paid player in the English Premier League.
Despite weeks of negotiations with Osimhen’s representatives and Napoli, an agreement remains elusive. Chelsea initially explored the option of signing Osimhen on loan, reluctant to meet his £110 million release clause, but Napoli dismissed this proposal.
Reports from the UK’s The Sun suggest that Napoli has since lowered their asking price to £85 million, yet Osimhen’s wage demands continue to be a sticking point.
Osimhen has submitted a formal transfer request, signaling his intent to leave Napoli this summer, regardless of whether a deal with Chelsea materializes. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has also expressed interest in the forward but has temporarily stepped back from negotiations.
Chelsea remains keen to secure the Nigerian international, whom they have long identified as a key target.