Chelsea squad numbers available to Victor Osimhen as Mauricio Pochettino makes transfer demand

Chelsea are among the clubs interested in signing Napoli star Victor Osimhen ahead of the January transfer window. football.london understands that Chelsea were keen on the Nigerian in the summer, but Nicolas Jackson was signed from Villarreal instead.

The Blues believe that Osimhen is certainly acquirable, but a move in January is unlikely at present. With Osimhen's contract set to expire in 2025, a move could be on the cards in the upcoming transfer windows.

Earlier this month, the Napoli star was named African Footballer of the Year ahead of Mohamed Salah and Achraf Hakimi. Osimhen featured 32 times in the Serie A last season, scoring 26 goals to get his hands on the golden boot and the Scudetto.

Reports in recent weeks have revealed issues have arisen in Osimhen's negotiations with Napoli with the report adding that there is little chance he will agree to an extension despite his club's ongoing efforts. That has given Chelsea hope that a move for Osimhen in 2024 is a serious possibility — and while a summer transfer remains the most likely outcome, the Blues are ready to test Napoli's resolve sooner with a January bid.

Following the recent defeat against Everton, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino hinted he could dip into the transfer market to sign a new No.9 if results don't improve. «It is everything, it's not as easy to say that is the problem,» Pochettino said.

«There are 11 players on the pitch that need to perform and the idea and philosophy. The problem is why we arrive in this situation, we are dealing with this, we know why but it is difficult to explain.

»We know why we are dealing with this. Today, I think is different to Newcastle or Manchester United. Newcastle a few days ago lose 3-0 and Everton was much