Chelsea target Super Eagles-eligible youngster as Osimhen alternative

Premier League giants Chelsea will reportedly look to sign Atletico Madrid star Samuel Omorodion this summer as they drop interest in Nigeria international Victor Osimhen.

After Osimhen’s impressive 2022/23 Serie A season, the Nigerian striker has been on the radar of a number of teams looking to add the Napoli man to their front line.

Chelsea were on the frontline of the race to sign Osimhen for a long time, with the Nigeria international believed to be in favour of a move to Stamford Bridge, but the appointment of Blues manager Enzo Maresca has put a damper on the possibility of the 25-year-old joining the Premier League side.

In Osimhen’s stead, Chelsea have reportedly identified Atletico Madrid’s Omorodion, who spent the 2023/24 LaLiga season on loan with Alaves as their first-choice attacking addition.

Sky Sport’s Gianluca Di Marzio reported that Chelsea have now made Omorodion their top target ahead of a busy summer transfer period, with the Blues expected to make moves for the Spain-born Nigeria-eligible forward.

Omorodion scored eight goals in 34 appearances in LaLiga for Alaves and has been the subject of bids from West Ham already. However, Atletico Madrid rejected an initial €35 million bid from West Ham for Omorodion, and it remains to be seen if they will listen to Chelsea’s offer.