John Obi Mikel Reveals Private Talks with Victor Osimhen About Chelsea Move

Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel has thrown his support behind Victor Osimhen making a move to the Premier League this summer – with Arsenal and Manchester United still in the race to land the Nigerian striker.

Osimhen, who spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, scored an impressive 37 goals in 41 games for the Turkish club. Despite this red-hot form, Napoli – where he’s still under contract – have no plans to include him in their squad next season under new manager Antonio Conte.

While Galatasaray are eager to keep him in Turkey and clubs in Saudi Arabia, like Al-Hilal, are circling with big-money offers, Mikel believes the 26-year-old should stay in Europe and chase his Premier League dream.

“I hope there is still a Premier League move for him this summer,” Mikel told Metro.
“The likes of Arsenal and Manchester United still need a striker.”

Chelsea had been one of the frontrunners to sign Osimhen last summer and again this year, with Mikel revealing that the striker had grown up supporting the Blues. However, a late deal fell apart previously and now, the west London club appear to have gone in a different direction.

With young striker Liam Delap set to arrive from Ipswich Town, Chelsea’s search for a top-class striker seems to have ended. Delap, who impressed in the Championship, is expected to compete with Nicolas Jackson for a starting spot next season – ending Osimhen’s hopes of wearing blue at Stamford Bridge.

“It’s a shame he didn’t come to Chelsea, the club he supported as a kid growing up,” Mikel admitted.
“I would have loved to see someone come in to hit the ground running. Someone who knows how to play in big games.”

According to Mikel, the Premier League remains Osimhen’s top goal. He believes both Arsenal and Manchester United still need a proper No. 9 – and the Super Eagles striker could be the answer.

He was particularly critical of United’s current striker options, casting doubt on whether Rasmus Højlund can lead the team to success.

“I don’t think Højlund is the guy for United. He works hard, but he’s not the one who’s going to score enough goals to get them into the top four or win them trophies.”

Despite United’s lack of European football next season, Mikel believes Osimhen might be willing to sacrifice that for a year if it means joining a big project and helping a top team bounce back.

“Maybe he would say, ‘I’ll give it a season,’ if the club brings in other good players. It’s something Victor might consider,” Mikel said.
“But we want to see him in the Champions League, so maybe Arsenal might be the destination. Maybe there’s a door open there.”

Mikel also hinted that he has personally spoken to Osimhen about his future and that the striker is still working towards a move that allows him to play in Europe’s top leagues.

“I won’t say much about our conversations, but he is working to make sure he ends up in a top, top European league,” Mikel added.
“He wants to showcase his talent and compete for the Champions League.”