Arjun Menon
Chelsea are targeting an elite No. 9 as Xabi Alonso looks to add a major attacking threat ahead of his first Premier League season in charge. Victor Osimhen has emerged at the top of their striker shortlist, with approaches expected in the coming period, according to Caught Offside.
Get 200% Bonus up to $500 – World Cup 2026 on TipsGG × Stake
The World Cup 2026 is almost here. Follow every match with expert betting tips, live odds, and tournament news – all in one place. Bet smarter with Stake’s 200% Welcome Bonus up to $500.
Chelsea have missed out on Champions League football following a poor run under former boss Liam Rosenior. The club are winless in seven league games at the time of writing, a significant blow to their ambitions. The attacking setup has been a clear weakness, and despite Joao Pedro‘s impressive goalscoring form, more firepower is needed at the top of the pitch.
The club has since appointed Xabi Alonso as manager, with the Spaniard set to officially begin his role in July. Transfer planning is already underway, with the centre-forward position identified as a priority area for reinforcement.
Is Osimhen Back on Chelsea’s Radar?
Chelsea are set to rekindle their interest in Victor Osimhen, a player they came close to signing two years ago before he chose a loan move to Galatasaray. That temporary deal became permanent last summer, and Osimhen has delivered consistently, registering 22 goals and 8 assists while helping the club win consecutive league titles.
His numbers have drawn attention from Arsenal and Barcelona as well, though any deal will be complicated regardless of the interested party. Chelsea see the Nigerian as a genuine elite No. 9 and are now assessing what it would take to get a deal done.
Read also: Joao Pedro Breaks Silence After Being Dropped From Brazil’s 2026 World Cup Squad
What Would a Deal Require?
Galatasaray paid €75 million to make Osimhen‘s move permanent and will demand a premium to sell their top forward. The 27-year-old‘s wage demands present an added layer of financial complexity for any buying club.
There are reports suggesting Alonso could sanction the sale of Joao Pedro to help generate funds. Moving on a player who has been one of Chelsea‘s more consistent performers would be a bold call. Still, the prospect of playing in the Premier League under Alonso could be a genuine draw for Osimhen, with the manager expected to play a personal role in any recruitment pitch.
Follow TipsGG for the latest updates on Chelsea‘s transfer activity as the summer window approaches.