Chelsea-linked star omitted from match-day squad as Enzo Maresca eyes last-gasp transfer to bolster squad
Chelsea target Victor Osimhen has been left out of the Napoli team that will face Bologna this evening as the club seeks a solution for the wantaway striker. Napoli are closing in on a deal for Romelu Lukaku, who has been manager Antonio Conte’s preferred choice all summer.
His arrival might prompt the Italian club to reconsider how much they are willing to compromise on Victor Osimhen’s transfer. The Nigerian striker has agreed on personal terms with French side PSG, but they are unwilling to match Napoli’s over £100 million valuation of the player.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed in his press conference ahead of the Wolves game that they are still in the market to strengthen the team, and it is widely reported that Osimhen is one of their targets.
When asked about the transfer situation at the club, Maresca said he was only interested in players who would strengthen the team, not just signings for the sake of it. He told LondonWorld: “It is better if we do not sign because we do not need to sign players just to sign players. If we sign players and they help us to improve, then for sure we need players. Otherwise, we are happy with the way we are.”
Napoli magazine have confirmed that Osimhen will not be part of Antonio Conte’s squad for this evening’s game, which leaves the window open for both Chelsea and PSG. It remains to be seen if Chelsea will be tempted to meet his reportedly huge wage demands, especially if they can offload Raheem Sterling, who has already had his jersey number taken away, and Lukaku from the wage bill.
There is also the consideration of Marc Guiu, who has impressed the technical team, and what bringing in another striker would mean for his development, as well as for Nicolas Jackson.
