Victor Osimhen: Chelsea Eye Deal for Napoli Superstar Striker With Romelu Lukaku As Bait

• Chelsea are reportedly willing to trade Romelu Lukaku and a young player to sign Victor Osimhen
• The proposed deal aims to reduce the Nigerian's €130 million release clause to around €90 million
• Liverpool have also entered the race to sign the striker after a disappointing end to their season

Chelsea are reportedly willing to part ways with Romelu Lukaku and a young player to secure Victor Osimhen's services.

According to Sky Sport Italia journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the Blues have initiated talks with Napoli to negotiate a swap deal that would bring the Nigerian international to Stamford Bridge.

The reigning African Footballer of the Year has been on the Blues' radar for some time, but his €130 million release clause has proven to be a significant hurdle.

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However, according to Sky Sport Italia, by including Lukaku and an unnamed young player in the deal, Mauricio Pochettino's side hopes to reduce the asking price to around €90 million.

Giovanni Manna, Napoli's incoming sporting director, is said to be a fan of the Belgian, having previously attempted to sign him at Juventus. The former Man United forward's lack of playing time under Pochettino made him "surplus to requirements", making him an attractive makeweight in the proposed deal.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have also reportedly entered the fray, seeking to capitalize on their disappointing end to the season. The Reds' quadruple challenge came crashing down in recent weeks, and they are now looking to revamp their attack with Osimhen at the helm, as per Hard Tackle.

Since joining Napoli in 2020, the Super Eagles talisman has scored 75 goals and made 18 assists in 130 appearances across all competitions. His impressive form has caught the attention of top European clubs, and it remains to be seen which team will ultimately secure his signature.

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Osimhen says he would cry when he exits Napoli

Sports Brief reported that Osimhen hinted he could cry when he says 'goodbye' to Napoli.

He had a historic 2022/23 season and has probably outgrown the club, who have struggled to defend the Serie A title.

He joined the club in 2020 and has shattered records to become a fan favourite at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.