Osimhen’s Agent Denies Chelsea Loan

Victor Osimhen's agent, Roberto Calenda, has strongly dismissed rumors about the Nigerian striker joining Chelsea on loan with an option to buy, amidst ongoing negotiations with English Premier League giants. The speculation emerged after a report by The Athletic, which suggested a potential deal involving Romelu Lukaku moving to Napoli permanently, while Osimhen would head to Chelsea on loan. However, transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano shared a statement from a seemingly upset Calenda, who debunked these claims. "I read about ‘fantasy exchanges’ with Victor as if he was a package to be delivered quickly," Calenda said via Romano. "This package is the top scorer of the third Scudetto in the history of Napoli. Respect and stop fake news!"

Despite these denials, talks between Napoli and Chelsea are reportedly ongoing. The discussions focus on a player-plus-cash deal for Osimhen and Lukaku, as Napoli looks for a resolution to Osimhen's transfer situation. Napoli values Osimhen at £110 million, and the club may expect an additional fee alongside Lukaku in any potential deal. Meanwhile, Arsenal has reportedly shown renewed interest in Osimhen, with manager Mikel Arteta considering him a preferable option to Kai Havertz. However, Arsenal is only prepared to spend €85 million, which may not meet Napoli's expectations.

Osimhen was also linked with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) recently, but negotiations broke down due to disagreements over his release clause, which has also deterred other Premier League clubs from making offers this summer.