John Obi Mikel is using his relationship with fellow Nigerian international Victor Osimhen to try and benefit his former club in the transfer market.
The Napoli talisman has been long linked with a move away from the Serie A outfit, particularly last summer when numerous clubs entered the window in search of a prolific No.9 to bolster their squads for the 2023/2024 season.
Osimhen, however, opted to commit his future to Napoli after playing a pivotal role in their Scudetto-winning campaign last term. They finished 16 points clear atop the table and ended a 33-year wait to lift the title as the frontman netted 26 goals to aid their triumph.
In December 2023, he penned a five-year deal with the side, which reportedly contains a £112 million release clause.
Manchester United were among the sides monitoring the 25-year-old’s availability in the past but the acquisition and recent form of Rasmus Hojlund has likely ruled them out of any future pursuit. Of course, another prolific centre-forward is necessary at Old Trafford and is being targeted ahead of the next window, though probably not one for such an eye-watering fee.
Chelsea get helping hand in Osimhen pursuit
Nevertheless, Chelsea remain active in their interest and will perhaps look to strike up a deal at the end of the term – and they’ve got former Blue Obi Mikel fighting their corner.
“He has many clubs interested in him, such as PSG, [and] Manchester United,” he explained, as per CalcioMercato. “But I am pushing, sending him messages, trying to make sure that there is only one club in his mind.
“The Blues!”
