Chelsea Explores Loan for Osimhen while Negotiating Gallagher Transfer

Chelsea Football Club is actively pursuing a potential loan deal for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli, while simultaneously engaging in discussions with Atlético Madrid regarding the sale of midfielder Conor Gallagher. Negotiations for Osimhen are reportedly ongoing, with Chelsea exploring a scenario that could involve Romelu Lukaku moving to Napoli on a three-year contract. Osimhen, who is eager for a transfer to Stamford Bridge, has been a target for Paris Saint-Germain, but the French club has yet to finalize a fee. Napoli's president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has set a hefty release clause of approximately €130 million (£110 million) for Osimhen. Despite Chelsea's reluctance to meet this clause, they are considering a loan arrangement with an option to buy at the end of the season. Lukaku's future is pivotal in these discussions, as he is expected to return to Chelsea after two seasons on loan in Italy, and he has already agreed to personal terms with Napoli. In parallel, Chelsea is open to selling Gallagher to Atlético Madrid, who have proposed a deal worth up to €40 million (£33.7 million). This offer falls short of Chelsea's initial £50 million asking price, especially as Gallagher's contract is nearing its end. While it remains uncertain if Gallagher would accept a move to Atlético, he is reportedly willing to remain at Chelsea if the terms do not align with his expectations, potentially leading to a free transfer next summer.