Chelsea Target Victor Osimhen as First Signing for Incoming Head Coach Enzo Maresca

Chelsea is poised to back their new head coach Enzo Maresca with a high-profile signing in the upcoming summer transfer window, targeting Serie A superstar Victor Osimhen.

Maresca’s Vision for Chelsea:

Chelsea are set to confirm Enzo Maresca as their new head coach on a five-year contract, along with five of his backroom staff from Leicester City. Maresca, who has a pedigree of success having worked under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and won the Championship with Leicester, is expected to bring a long-term vision to the club, similar to Mikel Arteta’s impact at Arsenal.

Osimhen: The Priority Target

According to TeamTalk, Maresca has already identified areas in Chelsea’s squad needing improvement, with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as a key priority. The Nigerian forward, who played a vital role in Napoli’s Serie A title win in 2022/23 by scoring 26 league goals, is seen as a crucial addition to Chelsea’s attacking options.

Financial Challenges and Competition:

Chelsea faces a significant financial hurdle with Osimhen’s £102 million release clause. To navigate the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, the club will need to offload several players, particularly those who are club-trained, to fund the move.

Despite interest from Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea are currently the frontrunners for Osimhen’s signature. The striker, influenced by Chelsea legends Didier Drogba and John Obi Mikel, is reportedly eager to join a Premier League club and is waiting for an offer from the Blues.

Alternative Targets:

While there is some preference within Chelsea for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, the club’s strong interest in Osimhen suggests he is likely to be the first signing under Maresca’s management.

Osimhen’s Impact and Potential:

Osimhen has been prolific for Napoli, scoring 76 goals in 133 appearances. Although his last season was marred by injuries, limiting him to 15 goals, his talent and potential remain highly regarded.

Next Steps:

As Chelsea prepare for Maresca’s official appointment, the focus will be on securing Osimhen’s transfer to bolster their squad for the 2024-25 campaign. The Blues’ commitment to supporting Maresca’s vision with high-calibre signings like Osimhen underscores their ambition to return to the pinnacle of English and European football.