Chelsea hold talks over £87m transfer for Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen
Chelsea have opened negotiations to sign Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen in an £87m deal as they prepare for a summer rebuild under incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
The West London club have identified the 27-year-old forward as a primary target to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new campaign.
Representatives of the Nigerian international have reportedly contacted the Blues to discuss a potential move to Stamford Bridge.
Alonso arrival sparks squad rebuild
Chelsea recently confirmed that Alonso will take charge of the first team on a four-year contract starting from 1 July.
The Spaniard is expected to oversee a major overhaul of a squad that has endured a highly disappointing season under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior.
Their current domestic struggles mean the club are increasingly likely to miss out on Champions League qualification for another year.
Despite this European setback, the prospect of playing under the former Bayer Leverkusen boss has left their primary transfer target open to a summer switch.
Galatasaray demand premium fee
The former Napoli frontman has enjoyed a superb campaign in Turkey, registering 22 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances.
Galatasaray are understandably reluctant to lose their star attacker after recently turning his initial loan spell into a permanent arrangement.
The Turkish champions will demand a fee in the region of €100m to sanction a sale during the upcoming transfer window.
His exceptional form has cemented his reputation across the continent as an elite offensive threat.
He has widely been described as the best striker in the world.
Club officials are eager to partner the prolific goalscorer with Joao Pedro, who has netted over 20 times across all competitions this term.
A successful swoop for the African forward would add significant firepower alongside existing creative talents Cole Palmer and Estevao.