Victor Osimhen: A Talent Unhappy with Fate, Says John Obi Mikel
Long-term Chelsea target Victor Osimhen’s dream move to Stamford Bridge may have fallen through, but a former Blues midfielder is set to clear the air about the striker’s motivations. John Obi Mikel, a Nigerian compatriot of Osimhen, has dismissed claims that the forward is a greedy player.
According to Mikel, who has spoken about the transfer saga on his Obi One Podcast, Osimhen was simply seeking what he felt he deserved at Chelsea. The Nigerian international’s proposed move to the West London club stalled due to significant differences in wage demands. While Osimhen was reportedly earning in excess of £200,000 per week at Napoli, Chelsea’s wage bill has been a subject of attention since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital took over the club in May 2022.
A season-long loan deal has ultimately taken Osimhen to Galatasaray, where he hopes to make his debut against Rizespor on Saturday and help the defending Super Lig champions retain their title. Despite the transfer collapse, Mikel is adamant that Osimhen’s ambition has been misinterpreted.
"I was involved in trying to make sure that I get Victor to Chelsea," Mikel said. "I just want to say that I know the boy since from the very first day he joined the national team. Yeah, my relationship with him has been very, very good. I know what he’s capable of, and I just want to say that is not true. Victor is not a greedy boy. He only wants to get what he deserves. And that’s not a problem."
With Chelsea now prioritizing wage stability, a compromise seemed necessary for a deal to be reached. However, that compromise proved elusive, leaving both parties frustrated and contemplating re-opening negotiations in the future.
The transfer saga serves as a reminder that the transfer window can be unpredictable and unforgiving. Despite Osimhen’s high wages at Napoli, his talent and potential make him a valuable asset, and fans of Chelsea and Galatasaray alike will be eager to see him take to the pitch in his new surroundings.