Chelsea are preparing a formal offer for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as they brace themselves for a battle to beat Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli to his signature.

Blues boss Enzo Maresca has made no secret of his desire to bolster in attack and Chelsea have waited until the final day of the transfer window to try and ramp the pressure up on both Napoli and Osimhen to lower their demands.

While Chelsea cannot afford a permanent deal this summer, Fabrizio Romano notes they are now preparing to offer a loan with an obligation to make the move permanent in 2025.

Fabrice Hawkins adds that Chelsea officials are currently in Naples trying to convince Osimhen to accept their offer.

The Blues are behind in the race for Osimhen’s signature as Saudi outfit Al Ahli have already agreed all aspects of a transfer. They have struck a “total agreement” with Napoli over a €80m (£67.2m) transfer fee, while also agreeing personal terms with Osimhen.

A four-year contract worth between €25m and €30m annually has been accepted, with Al Ahli also bowing to Osimhen’s demand to include a release clause in the deal. All that is missing is Osimhen’s final approval.

It is believed that Osimhen is giving Chelsea the chance to improve their offer before responding to Al Ahli. The Blues have a new wage structure which means they cannot match the finances on offer in Saudi Arabia, but Chelsea hope to convince the striker to buy into their new incentivised approach.

If Osimhen does not accept Chelsea’s offer, he is expected to head to the Middle East.

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