Chelsea is reportedly prepared to trigger the €130m (£111m) release clause in Victor Osimhen’s Napoli contract during the upcoming summer transfer window. The 25-year-old striker, instrumental in Napoli’s Serie A title win with 26 goals last season, has faced a different scenario with Chelsea this season, currently sitting in ninth position in the league.

While Osimhen extended his contract with Napoli until June 2026 last December, he is set to leave the Italian champions this summer. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis confirmed the expected departure, revealing potential destinations such as Real Madrid, PSG, or a top English club.

Paris Saint-Germain sees Osimhen as a possible replacement for Kylian Mbappe, set to leave the club on a free transfer. Real Madrid’s pursuit of Mbappe leaves Chelsea in a competitive position with PSG for Osimhen’s signature.

Italian journalist Rudy Galetti reported that Chelsea aims to expedite the process, anticipating strong competition from PSG. While PSG has allegedly agreed to pay the full €130m (£111m) release clause, negotiations over the payment structure remain pending between the two clubs.

Osimhen showcased strong form for Napoli in the 2022-23 campaign, tallying 31 goals and five assists in 39 appearances. However, his performance this season has seen a dip, managing eight goals and three assists in 18 appearances, partly due to his involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Although Nigeria reached the final of the tournament, they faced a 2-1 defeat to Cote d’Ivoire, with Sebastian Haller netting the winner. Napoli recently played to a 1-1 draw with Genoa in Serie A and is gearing up to host Barcelona in the first leg of their last-16 Champions League tie.