Chelsea are reportedly enlisting the help of former players John Mikel Obi and Didier Drogba in a last-ditch effort to secure Victor Osimhen’s signature from Napoli.
The Nigerian international is hesitant about joining Chelsea due to their absence from the Champions League. According to Times Sport, the Premier League side is turning to Mikel and Drogba to persuade Osimhen to make the move.
“I hope that Chelsea fans will finally see him come to the club,” said Mikel. “I’ll make sure I send him those text messages and calls, making sure Chelsea is his top priority. “But it seems like he loves the club and wants to come to Chelsea. I’m sure he has all the big clubs wanting to sign him. I think if we can secure his signature it would be fantastic for the club.
“Didier is also speaking to him, sharing his own ideas and what the club means to us. We all want to see Victor come to the club. If it happens, it happens. It’s a huge transfer fee, but if we can match it and get him to the club that would be absolutely.”
Meanwhile, according to multiple sources including Sky Sport Italia, Sportitalia and Calciomercato.com, Napoli director Manna is currently in London for a new meeting with Chelsea and he hopes to get the deal done over the next 24 hours.
While the Premier League side value Lukaku at over €40m, the Napoli idea would be closer to €30-35m including add-ons.
Osimhen has a release clause in his contract worth €130m, but would probably be prepared to accept nearer to €100m plus bonuses.