Chelsea ‘strong contenders’ for £132m-rated Manchester United transfer target this summer

Chelsea have emerged as competitors alongside Manchester United in the race to sign Napoli star Victor Osimhen, according to reports.

Osimhen has enjoyed a more than fruitful campaign so far, with his Napoli side sitting 19 points clear at the top of Serie A, scoring 25 goals in 28 games in all competitions along the way.

As reported by the Nizaar Kinsella of the Evening Standard, the Blues have surfaced as ‘strong contenders’ to land the signature of Victor Osimhen from Napoli this summer. Also courted by Manchester United, the Nigerian striker is valued at between £88 million and £132 million.

Napoli also find themselves in a Champions League quarter-final tie against Italian rivals AC Milan, with a winnable run of fixtures standing between them and the final in June.

Meanwhile, goals have been scarce at Stamford Bridge this season with the club’s top scorer Kai Havertz currently sitting on a sub-par return of nine goals in 36 outings, therefore the Chelsea hierarchy may be looking to bolster their attacking options this summer.

And the feeling surrounding the club, as per the report, is that the sentimental connection Osimhen holds with the west London side will give them an edge in trying to lure him away from Naples.

The big centre-forward grew up idolising former Blues striker Didier Drogba, who enjoyed two iconic spells at Chelsea from 2004-2012 before returning to the club for the 2014/15 title winning campaign.

Manchester United have also been keeping a watchful eye on Serie A’s top scorer this season, however discussions have begun about potentially bringing Harry Kane to Old Trafford.

The England star has just 16 months remaining on his contract, and may be looking to jump ship following another trophyless season in north London.

Chelsea, who currently sit in 10th place in the Premier League and have a Champions League quarter final to look forward to, have not been shy of spending money since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital bought the club last year.

But with an enlarged squad of 32 players at Graham Potter’s disposal, outgoings could be key in transfer proceedings at the club this summer.

And with a long list of names expected to depart Stamford Bridge come next season, including the likes of Christian Pulisic, Hakim Ziyech and Romelu Lukaku, a move for Osimhen could well be on the cards.