Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel has thrown his support behind a Premier League move for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, but insists Manchester United is off the table at least for now.
Mikel: “He wants Chelsea, not United without Europe”
Speaking on bein SPORTS’ Soccer Sunday Live, Mikel addressed ongoing reports linking Victor Osimhen with a big-money move to England. The Nigerian legend said Osimhen has expressed interest in playing for Chelsea, but a move to Manchester United would be off the cards if they fail to qualify for European competition.
“If that’s the case, then he doesn’t go to United,” Mikel said when asked about United’s fading hopes of European football next season.
He further hinted that Chelsea had already made progress in securing Osimhen’s signature, suggesting previous negotiations had laid the groundwork:
“I know where we (Chelsea) stopped in terms of the contract. We did all the hard work last summer. It’s so easy to just pick it up.”
Mikel, who played alongside Osimhen briefly during his final international years, expressed optimism that the Napoli-owned striker would bring his goal-scoring form to England.
“I hope somewhere in the Premier League,” he added. “I don’t know; we wait and see.”
Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Turkish champions Galatasaray, has had a stellar season, scoring 21 goals in 25 league games and assisting four times, solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s most prolific strikers.
The 25-year-old forward is expected to return to Napoli this summer, but top Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United, are reportedly circling with serious interest.
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