Maresca addresses Osimhen links
Chelsea's manager Enzo Maresca has responded to reports linking the club with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen and Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix.Maresca was cautious about potential transfers during his first pre-match press conference of the Premier League season, which took place on Sunday ahead of their 2024/25 season opener against Manchester City.
"The only thing I can say, I have to say the same: They are not our players, so it's not correct to talk about a Napoli player or an Atletico Madrid player," replied Maresca.
The Blues have been heavily linked with moves for both Osimhen and Felix as they look to strengthen their attack this season, with reports claiming they recently had a €45 million bid for Felix rejected by Atletico Madrid.
With the recent acquisition of Pedro Neto from Wolves for £51.3 million, their forward line appears to be well-stocked, including Raheem Sterling, Mykhailo Mudryk, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Christopher Nkunku. However, Neto's injury concerns indicate that Maresca must carefully manage his workload, leaving room for speculation about future additions.
Related News: Manchester City's Rodri faces injury setback ahead of Chelsea's opening game.
Chelsea manager vows to close gap with champions. Manchester City
Osimhen is on the verge of joining Chelsea.
Osimhen has long been touted as a top target for the London club, with two of its legends, Mikel Obi and Didier Drogba, reportedly attempting to persuade the Nigeria striker to relocate to Stamford Bridge.
"We want someone who can finish, score goals, and do tap-ins. "Someone like Erling Haaland," Mikel stated recently. "That's what Victor Osimhen will bring to Chelsea. I hope that Chelsea fans will finally see him join the club."
Osimhen, 25, has impressed in Serie A, winning the Capocannoniere in 2022/23 with 26 goals. His arrival could finally resolve Chelsea's long-standing problems up front.
While Maresca refused to comment on specific transfer targets, his evasive response suggests Chelsea's business may not be completed this window as they seek a title challenge.
Despite Napoli's initial demand for Osimhen's full £113 million release clause, reports suggest the Italian club may consider a swap deal involving Romelu Lukaku, Cesare Casadei, and additional cash, given new coach Antonio Conte's interest in the former.
Leave A Comment