According to reports, Chelsea is reportedly shifting their focus to signing a third forward following the acquisitions of Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson. Nkunku, who had previously agreed to join Chelsea on a pre-contract agreement in December. Has now finalized his move for a reported fee of £52 million. It is also believed that the arrival of Nicolas Jackson is imminent. As Chelsea has activated his release clause worth £30 million.
In order to increase their goal-scoring potential for the upcoming season. New Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino reportedly desires to add a prominent striker to the team. Football Insider suggests that several top strikers have been linked with the club. Although Manchester United is also interested in securing their services at a high cost. According to the report, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Inter’s Lautaro Martinez are at the top of Chelsea’s shortlist.
Osimhen, who has also been associated with Bayern Munich, played a pivotal role in Napoli’s Serie A title triumph. Netting 31 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis claims there is a “basic agreement” in place to extend Osimhen’s contract. But acknowledges that an exceptional offer may be too tempting to reject. Considering he had previously valued Osimhen at €150 million (£129 million).
Chelsea and Martinez
De Laurentiis stated, “We have already discussed the contract extension with Osimhen before the Scudetto celebration. So we have a basic agreement on a two-year extension. I have always maintained that Osimhen should stay. However, if an offer arrives that I cannot refuse for the benefit of Napoli, then we will evaluate it, as is only natural.”
On the other hand, Martinez played a crucial role in Inter’s journey to the Champions League final. And the club is understandably reluctant to part ways with him. Similar to their Serie A counterparts. However, a recent report suggests that Martinez is eager to secure a high-profile transfer to Chelsea during the summer, as Mauricio Pochettino’s interest intensifies.
Martinez would be the more affordable option, as Inter has reportedly set his price tag at £69.5 million. Nevertheless, Chelsea would still need to generate significant funds by offloading players. They seem to be actively pursuing this objective. As at least three players are to move to Saudi Arabia. Mateo Kovacic is in rumors to be heading to Manchester City. And potential exits for Kai Havertz to Arsenal and Mason Mount to Manchester United appear imminent. Additionally, a new club has emerged as a contender for the signing of Romelu Lukaku.
Overall, Chelsea is making concerted efforts to facilitate the necessary financial arrangements while targeting Martinez as a potential addition to their squad.
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