Former English international Shaun Wright-Phillips has weighed in on Chelsea’s potential pursuit of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Napoli-owned forward has been linked with several transfer moves away from Naples. Although a European deal did not materialise during the 2024 summer transfer window, Osimhen secured a season-long loan to Turkish champions Galatasaray.
Despite the rumours of Chelsea’s renewed interest in the Nigerian striker, Wright-Phillips believes the move is unnecessary, citing the impressive performances of Nicolas Jackson, who is currently leading the line for the Blues.
“I think Victor Osimhen would be a top player in the Premier League, but I wouldn’t necessarily say that the striker position is where Chelsea should be prioritising in the next few transfer windows,” Wright-Phillips told Sportscasting.com, as quoted by Metro.
The former Queens Park Rangers player argued that Chelsea’s biggest challenge lies in their defensive frailties rather than attacking options.
“They let Thiago Silva go, but they didn’t replace him. I think they need more experience in defence rather than in the striker position right now. They are not struggling to score goals. That is not a problem for them right now. The problem is they are conceding goals. If they can cut some of those mistakes, then again, we see a different Chelsea,” he added.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are also reportedly in search of a striker to strengthen their attack, with the futures of Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee uncertain.
The Red Devils are expected to compete with Chelsea and other clubs for Osimhen’s signature during the 2025 summer transfer window if Chelsea remains interested in the prolific forward.
