Chelsea have joined the growing list of clubs interested in signing Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen, with Turkish champions Galatasaray reportedly placing a €150m valuation on the forward ahead of the summer transfer window.
The latest speculation surrounding Osimhen’s future intensified after Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle revealed that the striker had been omitted from Nigeria’s upcoming friendly matches against Poland and Portugal because of a potential transfer move.
“Victor Osimhen will not be in our friendly matches against Poland and Portugal. Because there may be a possibility of a club change,” Chelle said.
“Therefore, I preferred him to stay at home. If your mind is not 100% here, going out on the field to play does not create a good situation.”
The comments quickly fuelled fresh reports linking the 27-year-old with several European clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United.
However, Osimhen swiftly sought to calm speculation, insisting that his coach’s remarks had been misinterpreted.
“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” the striker wrote on Instagram.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games and never intended to create any controversy. I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”
Nigeria’s media team later issued a clarification of Chelle’s comments as transfer rumours continued to dominate headlines.
Despite Osimhen’s response, interest in the Nigerian international remains strong. Reports have previously suggested that Manchester United have identified him as one of their leading striker targets for the summer.
Turkish newspaper Sabah reports that Chelsea have now opened discussions over a possible move, with the London club expected to make a formal approach during the transfer window.
Galatasaray, however, are reportedly unwilling to negotiate below €150m for a player they signed from Napoli for €75m last year.
Osimhen’s valuation reflects another impressive campaign in Turkey. The Nigerian forward scored 15 league goals and registered five assists in 22 appearances as Galatasaray successfully defended the Turkish Super Lig title.
He also made a significant impact in the UEFA Champions League, contributing seven goals and three assists as the Turkish side progressed to the round of 16.
