Mikel John Obi Urges Chelsea to Sign Napoli Striker Victor Osimhen
Mikel John Obi Urges Chelsea to Sign Napoli Striker Victor Osimhen
Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel John Obi has publicly urged his former club to make a move for Napoli’s prolific striker Victor Osimhen. The call comes as Chelsea continue their search for a top-class striker to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. With the transfer window still open, Mikel believes that Osimhen is the perfect fit to lead Chelsea’s frontline and restore the club to its former glory.
Mikel John Obi, who spent 11 successful years at Chelsea, winning multiple titles including two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League, remains a respected voice within the football community. His endorsement of Victor Osimhen carries significant weight, especially given his deep understanding of the club’s culture and its needs.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Mikel emphasized the importance of Chelsea signing a proven goal-scorer like Osimhen. “Chelsea needs a striker who can guarantee 20-25 goals a season, and I believe Victor Osimhen is that player. He’s young, hungry, and has already proven himself at the highest level. If Chelsea are serious about challenging for titles again, they need to sign him,” Mikel said.
Victor Osimhen, 25, has been one of the most sought-after strikers in European football following his sensational performances for Napoli in Serie A. The Nigerian international joined Napoli in 2020 from French club Lille for a then-club-record fee of €70 million, and he has since justified every penny of that investment.
Osimhen’s impact at Napoli has been nothing short of phenomenal. Last season, he was the top scorer in Serie A with 26 goals, leading Napoli to their first Scudetto in over three decades. His pace, physicality, and clinical finishing have made him a nightmare for defenders, and his performances have attracted interest from several top European clubs.
Chelsea, who struggled with their attacking options last season, have been linked with a move for Osimhen, but the transfer fee remains a significant hurdle. Napoli are reportedly demanding in excess of €120 million for their star striker, a fee that reflects Osimhen’s value in the current market.
Chelsea’s need for a striker has been well-documented. Despite heavy investment in the squad over the past few transfer windows, the club has struggled to find a consistent goal-scorer. Last season, Chelsea’s forwards, including Raheem Sterling, Nicolas Jackson, and Armando Broja, failed to deliver the required number of goals, leading to a disappointing campaign.
The club’s new head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, has made it clear that signing a top striker is a priority this summer. Pochettino, who has previously worked with elite strikers such as Harry Kane at Tottenham Hotspur, understands the importance of having a reliable goal-scorer in the squad.
While Chelsea have been linked with several strikers, including Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic and Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez, Mikel believes that Osimhen is the best option available. “Osimhen has the qualities that Chelsea need. He’s strong, fast, and he knows how to find the back of the net. He’s also a team player who works hard for his teammates. I think he would thrive in the Premier League and be a great fit for Chelsea,” Mikel added.
Napoli, under the management of Rudi Garcia, are reluctant to let go of their star striker. Osimhen has been central to their recent success, and the club is keen to keep him for their upcoming UEFA Champions League campaign. However, they are aware that a substantial offer from a club like Chelsea could test their resolve.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has made it clear that Osimhen is not for sale, but he has also hinted that every player has a price. “Victor is a key player for us, and we want to keep him here. But in football, anything can happen. We have to consider the future of the club, and if the right offer comes in, we will evaluate it,” De Laurentiis said in a recent interview.
Signing Victor Osimhen would be a statement of intent from Chelsea. His arrival would not only solve the club’s goal-scoring issues but also send a message to their Premier League rivals that Chelsea are serious about reclaiming their place at the top of English football.
Osimhen’s playing style is well-suited to the Premier League. His physicality and speed make him a perfect fit for the fast-paced and physical nature of the English game. Moreover, his ability to play both as a lone striker and in a partnership gives Pochettino tactical flexibility.
In addition to his on-field abilities, Osimhen’s mentality and work ethic have been praised by coaches and teammates alike. He is known for his determination and willingness to improve, qualities that would endear him to the Chelsea faithful.
As the transfer window enters its final weeks, the pressure is on Chelsea to make a decisive move. With Mikel John Obi joining the chorus of voices calling for Victor Osimhen’s signing, the spotlight is now on Chelsea’s management to deliver a top-class striker who can lead the club’s attack for years to come.
Whether or not Chelsea can meet Napoli’s asking price remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Victor Osimhen is a player who could transform Chelsea’s fortunes. As Mikel concluded, “If Chelsea can get Osimhen, they will be back among the elite in no time.”