Chelsea, Arsenal 'suffer transfer blow' as high-profile striker makes decision over January move

Napoli attempted to sell Osimhen permanently during the summer, with Chelsea negotiating right up until the final hours of the transfer window, but they were unable to finalise a deal before the deadline.

With the Nigerian international subsequently frozen out of the Napoli squad and missing the chance to secure a move to another top-five European league, he ultimately joined Turkish giants Galatasaray on a 12-month loan.

The 25-year-old attacker has adapted to life in Istanbul very well since his arrival, notching up six goals in as many Super Lig matches for the Turkish giants, and it seems that he is in no hurry to secure his next move.

Osimhen not considering Galatasaray exit in January

While Chelsea have been tipped to reignite their interest in Osimhen in January, Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg claims that the Nigeria international is not interested in departing Galatasaray during the winter transfer window.

The report adds that the 25-year-old is enjoying his time in Istanbul and has quickly become a fan favourite and the talisman of the team.

It is understood that Galatasaray are also expected to make an attempt to sign Osimhen permanently next summer, believing he might be open to such a move.

However, the finances involved could prove to be a significant hurdle in securing a deal, with Napoli expected to demand at least £62.7m to part ways with the player.

Osimhen scored 76 goals and provided 18 assists in 133 games for Napoli, including 26 goals in 2022-23, when he helped the side win their first Serie A title in over three decades.

Osimhen transfer fee could keep Premier League clubs interested

As mentioned, Napoli are expected to ask for over £60m to allow Osimhen to move, which is an amount that Galatasaray are unlikely to be able to afford.

That could open the door for Premier League clubs like Chelsea, who do have the ability to fund such an expensive move.

The Blues opted not to sign a new striker after their pursuit of Osimhen collapsed in the summer, with Enzo Maresca retaining faith in Nicolas Jackson.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are not known for splashing out huge amounts on new players, but they are in need of attacking reinforcements, with Kai Havertz having only scored four goals in 11 league games this term.