Troy Deeney backs Victor Osimhen for Chelsea amid striker search
Former Premier League star Troy Deeney has weighed in on Chelsea’s ongoing search for a top-tier striker, strongly endorsing Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as the ideal fit for the Blues. With Chelsea exploring options to bolster their attacking lineup, Deeney’s comments come at a critical time as the club considers its next move.
Chelsea have been linked with both Osimhen and Brentford striker Ivan Toney as they look to strengthen their front line. However, negotiations with Napoli for Osimhen have reportedly hit a snag over salary disagreements, making the deal uncertain. Despite these challenges, Chelsea continues to monitor Osimhen, who is rumored to be eager to leave Napoli.
In an interview with Sky Sports News, Deeney, who shares a close friendship with Toney, discussed his views on Chelsea’s striker situation. He expressed doubts about Chelsea’s current striker, Nicolas Jackson, and advocated for Osimhen as a better fit.
“I have always got to look after my boy [Ivan Toney], ain’t I?” Deeney began. “I was going to say Ivan, but for the way Chelsea are playing, personally, I am not a big Nicolas Jackson fan. I think he does a lot of running, but they don’t need that.”
Deeney went on to praise Osimhen, drawing comparisons between the Nigerian forward and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. “They need someone who is a bit like Haaland, looks after it, lets the other guys run,” Deeney explained. “Osimhen has the running, the ability, and the aura of ‘I am going to score, I am the big man, give me the ball.’”
When asked to choose between Toney and Osimhen without bias, Deeney was clear in his preference. “So if you ask me non-biased, all cards on the table, I would have to say Osimhen over Ivan.”
As Chelsea continues to evaluate their options, Osimhen remains a top target, and Napoli is reportedly expecting a formal bid from the London club. The next few days will be crucial for Chelsea’s transfer strategy, as they may make a last-ditch effort to secure a world-class striker before the window closes.
