As the summer transfer window approaches its final stretch, Premier League club Chelsea is still actively pursuing the signing of either Napoli striker Victor Osimhen or Brentford’s Ivan Toney.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Osimhen has been complicated by a substantial offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli. Despite Osimhen expressing a strong desire to play in the Premier League, the lucrative offer from Al Ahli poses a significant challenge for Chelsea.
Al Ahli has reportedly proposed a deal worth between €25 million and €30 million per season over four years for the Nigerian striker. This offer positions Osimhen as one of the highest-paid footballers globally. In contrast, Chelsea is prepared to offer Osimhen approximately €350,000 per week, which translates to about €18 million annually.
With Al Ahli’s attractive financial proposal, the Saudi club is considered the leading contender for Osimhen’s signature. However, there is a complication: Al Ahli is also interested in signing Brentford’s Ivan Toney. According to reports, a restriction within the Pro League, combined with financial constraints, means that Al Ahli cannot acquire both strikers simultaneously.
Sky Sports has confirmed that Al Ahli’s current plan is to choose between Osimhen and Toney. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also echoed this sentiment, noting on his X page:
“Understand Al Ahli will ONLY sign ONE between Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney. This is the current plan. Chelsea is still working in the background for Victor Osimhen in case he doesn’t give the final green light to Al Ahli.”
This situation leaves Chelsea in a favorable position to secure Osimhen if he opts against the Saudi offer. Should Osimhen decide to join Al Ahli, Chelsea is poised to turn its attention to Toney as a backup option.
As the transfer window progresses, Chelsea’s strategy will likely hinge on Osimhen’s final decision. If Al Ahli’s offer proves irresistible to the Nigerian striker, Toney could become Chelsea’s primary target to bolster their attacking options.
