Chelsea remain in the race for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, despite complications arising from Napoli’s increased demands. A delegation from Chelsea is currently in Naples, working on the deal. However, Chelsea’s wage structure poses challenges in meeting Osimhen’s demands.
Meanwhile, Al Ahli is closing in on a £40 million deal for Brentford’s Ivan Toney. Toney was spotted in London undergoing a medical, but with the Saudi transfer window open until Monday, Al Ahli is in no rush to finalize the deal.
Napoli had initially agreed to a £67 million fee for Osimhen with Al Ahli, but the Italian club has since raised their asking price, causing frustration for the Saudi club. While Al Ahli has offered Osimhen a lucrative four-year contract, the Nigerian international has yet to commit, keeping Chelsea’s hopes alive.
Al Ahli faces limitations in signing both Osimhen and Toney due to foreign player restrictions in the Saudi Pro League, raising doubts about the feasibility of a double deal.
Should Chelsea miss out on Osimhen and Toney, alternative targets could include Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran and Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin. However, Chelsea is reportedly content with their current squad unless a suitable deal aligns with their financial structure.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher highlighted Chelsea’s need for a proven striker, adding pressure on the club to secure a key forward before the transfer window closes.