Chelsea could use £35m trump card to beat Arsenal to 'fantastic' bagsman

Chelsea could outmuscle Arsenal in the race to sign Napoli talisman Victor Osimhen this summer thanks to a forgotten Blues player.

Both Premier League sides are believed to be interested in signing the Nigeria international this summer after he plundered 17 goals in all competitions this term for Napoli. Osimhen now has a total of 76 goals in 131 appearances for the club since joining from Lille in 2020.

Osimhen also impressed at the Africa Cup of Nations this year and was hailed as 'fantastic' by Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro. He scored just one goal in the tournament but was a focal figure for the side as they went all the way to the final.

The 25-year-old appears to have all the credentials to make it in the Premier League with the Blues and the Gunners both known to be in the market for a striker. Chelsea may have the upper edge, according to a new report from Calciomercato.

The Italian outlet reports that Osimhen is a 'priority' for Mauricio Pochettino's side this summer. The player is believed to have a lofty €130 million (£112m) release clause in his contract.

Chelsea could reportedly sweeten a deal with Napoli by offering to send striker Romelu Luaku to the Italian side. The Belgian international is still contracted to Chelsea but is somewhat of a forgotten figure having spent recent seasons on loan at Roma and Inter Milan.

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Lukaku has Serie A experience and could be offloaded to bring Osimhen to London. Chelsea are looking for around £35 million according to reports, with the star's contract at Stamford Bridge not expiring until 2026.

Osimhen has already said that he would like to play in the Premier League 'one day', fuelling summer transfer rumours. Speaking about the transfer to LondonWorld earlier this year, Chelsea legend Mikel John Obi said: "I have absolutely no idea. There are so many stories around Victor.

"For him, it must be a joy to have these big clubs wanting your service. He must be rubbing his hands. He has done really well for Napoli but needs to take the next step and go to a club where he can challenge for the Champions League and Premier League.

"Let's hope he comes to the Premier League, I hope to Chelsea. I'm trying to make sure I broker that deal!"