Galatasaray's £43m Osimhen Bid Rejected as Chelsea Hopes Fade

Victor Osimhen joining Chelsea now looks unlikely after Galatasaray made an offer to Napoli. (Image: (Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images))

Chelsea are still involved in some big transfer headlines despite completing the majority of their business. The Blues have confirmed the signings of Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro with sealing exits now the club's priority.

Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix are obvious candidates to balance the books with Noni Madueke also capable of helping if he joins Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta is said to be a big fan of the 23-year-old with personal terms already agreed and an opening bid from Emirates Stadium on the way. If that exit is sanctioned, a total of three attacking departures could arrive with that making it likely at least one more forward is signed.

Madueke transfer timeline highlighted

ESPN are claiming that Madueke to Arsenal could be completed this week. With the player open to moving across London, the two clubs would need to agree on a transfer fee - but there looks to be a difference in their respective valuations.

While Chelsea want £50m, Arsenal are likely to offer £40m, but it does seem as though a compromise can be met.

As for Arsenal, they will likely feel as though they are signing an exciting winger with a huge potential he is yet to hit. After a quiet June - especially in comparison to Chelsea - it's fair to say the turn of the month has seen Arsenal kick into gear.

Felix and Nkunku also being moved on is likely to result in a fourth attacking addition being looked at with Malick Fofana and Alejandro Garnacho the main options as Mohammed Kudus prefers a move to Tottenham.

Osimhen bid submitted but swiftly rejected

Galatasaray saw their first offer to bring Victor Osimhen back to Turkey rejected by Napoli. The proposal was worth £43m (€50m) plus a further £4.1m (€5m) in add-ons and, with that some way off his £64.5m (€75m) release clause, it is no surprise it was turned down , as per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

He has since claimed that a fresh approach for the Nigeria international will be made with Napoli demanding more money and in a better payment structure. Until a complete agreement is reached, there is still a chance for Chelsea to hijack that move. Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal are also still showing an interest.

Crazier things have happened in the transfer window though but for Osimhen to seal a move to Chelsea, they will need to work quickly to sanction exits and make their move for the 26-year-old.