By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Chelsea have joined the race to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Galatasaray this summer, according to reports from Turkey. The Premier League club has reportedly initiated contact over a potential deal during the upcoming transfer window. Galatasaray, however, insist they will not consider offers below €150 million for the Super Eagles star. The development follows comments by Nigeria coach Eric Chelle regarding Osimhen’s absence from upcoming international friendlies, which sparked fresh transfer speculation across Europe.
Chelsea Show Interest in Victor Osimhen
Turkish newspaper Sabah reports that Chelsea have made initial moves to explore a deal for Osimhen.
The London club continues its search for a prolific striker ahead of the new season. Osimhen remains one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe following another impressive campaign.
Meanwhile, Manchester United remain interested in the Nigerian international. Previous reports claimed that Osimhen tops the club’s shortlist of striker targets for the summer transfer window.
Sources close to the player maintain that he would only consider leaving if Galatasaray decide to sell him.
Galatasaray Set €150m Asking Price
Galatasaray have adopted a firm stance over Osimhen’s future.
Club officials reportedly value the striker at €150 million and are unwilling to negotiate below that figure. The Turkish champions signed Osimhen from Napoli for €75 million last summer.
The valuation reflects both his importance to the team and his outstanding performances since arriving in Turkey.
Eric Chelle’s Comments Spark Transfer Speculation
Transfer rumours intensified after Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle explained why Osimhen was omitted from Nigeria’s squad for June friendlies against Poland and Portugal.
“Victor Osimhen will not be in our friendly matches against Poland and Portugal. Because there may be a possibility of a club change. Therefore, I preferred him to stay at home,” Chelle said.
The coach added that a player’s focus remains important during periods of transfer uncertainty.
His remarks quickly generated headlines and renewed speculation about Osimhen’s future.
Osimhen Responds to Transfer Rumours
Osimhen moved swiftly to address the reports.
The striker revealed that he spoke directly with Chelle after the interview generated widespread attention.
“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” Osimhen wrote on Instagram.
He stressed that the coach’s remarks had been taken out of context.
According to Osimhen, Chelle holds great respect for Galatasaray and never intended to create controversy.
The Super Eagles media team also issued a clarification shortly after the comments surfaced.
Outstanding Season Strengthens Demand
Osimhen enjoyed another exceptional season with Galatasaray.
The Nigerian striker scored 15 league goals and provided five assists in 22 matches as the club retained the Turkish Super Lig title.
In addition, he registered seven goals and three assists in the UEFA Champions League, helping Galatasaray reach the Round of 16.
His consistent performances continue to attract interest from several top European clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
Uncertainty Remains Over Osimhen’s Future
Although Osimhen has denied any imminent transfer plans, speculation surrounding his future continues.
Chelsea and Manchester United remain among the clubs monitoring the situation. However, Galatasaray’s €150 million valuation could prove a major obstacle for potential suitors.
For now, the Nigerian forward remains focused on his current club while Europe watches closely.
