Xabi Alonso is prepared to sell one of Chelsea's key attacking players to raise funds for a move to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, sources close to the club said.
The Chelsea manager sees Osimhen, who plays for Napoli, as a priority signing for next season and believes the 25-year-old Nigerian can transform the club's attacking play. Alonso's plan involves offloading an established forward currently at Stamford Bridge to finance what would be a roughly €100 million deal for the Napoli star.
Osimhen has been one of Europe's most prolific strikers over the past two seasons. He helped Napoli win the Serie A title in 2023 and continues to attract interest from major European clubs. His pace, physicality, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most coveted forwards in world football.
The identity of which Chelsea player Alonso plans to sell has not been confirmed. However, the manager's willingness to part with what the club considers an 'untouchable' player shows the strength of his conviction about Osimhen's potential impact at Chelsea.
Alonso took charge of Chelsea in December after a period of uncertainty at Stamford Bridge. He has been tasked with reshaping the squad and bringing stability to a club that has struggled with consistency in recent seasons. A move for Osimhen would represent a major statement of intent under the Spanish tactician's watch.
Napoli paid around €70 million to sign Osimhen from Lille in 2020, and he has since become one of the most valuable assets in Italian football. Any deal to bring him to Chelsea would rank among the club's most significant investments in recent years.
Alonso's interest in Osimhen comes as Chelsea continues to evaluate its attacking options heading into the summer transfer window. The club has struggled at times this season and the manager believes an addition of Osimhen's caliber could provide the firepower needed to compete for major trophies.
Negotiations between Chelsea and Napoli have not yet begun officially, but Alonso's public stance suggests serious intent. The coming weeks will determine whether Chelsea can move quickly to secure the Nigerian forward's signature before other interested clubs make their moves.
