Chelsea have dropped out of the race to sign Serie A striker | OneFootball

Chelsea Step Back from Osimhen Pursuit as Manchester United Take Pole Position

Chelsea’s well-documented search for a true No.9 has taken yet another twist. According to Caught Offside, the Blues have cooled their interest in Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, instead shifting their summer focus elsewhere. For many Chelsea supporters, the news will feel less like a pragmatic decision and more like another missed opportunity in a growing list of ‘what could have beens’.

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Shift in Strategy Leaves Chelsea Short Up Front

Victor Osimhen, described by former Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti as a “great striker”, had been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge across recent windows. His goalscoring prowess — showcased once again this season with 28 goals in 32 appearances — made him a dream acquisition for many Chelsea fans hoping to see the club invest in proven quality.

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But the report from Caught Offside makes it clear: “Chelsea are not interested in Victor Osimhen anymore.” With Manchester United and Juventus still in the mix, and with Juventus’s strong links through director Cristiano Giuntoli, the Blues’ withdrawal may allow their rivals a clearer run.

Gyokeres and Sesko Now Lead Shortlist

Instead of Osimhen, Chelsea’s recruitment team now appear to be looking at alternative targets. Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko are now considered higher priorities for the club’s summer plans. Both are talented and emerging forwards, but neither has the elite-level experience Osimhen brings from both Serie A and the Champions League.

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The club also have an eye on Ipswich’s Liam Delap following his impressive Championship campaign. While the interest in Delap is seen as part of a broader youth-focused strategy, it may not address the urgent need for a consistent, ready-made striker.

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United’s Rebuild Opens Door for Osimhen

Manchester United’s pursuit of Osimhen is gaining momentum as the Red Devils prepare to reshape their attacking line. With uncertainties surrounding both Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, Osimhen is seen as a marquee figure who could lead the next phase at Old Trafford.

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“Chelsea were previously entirely in the race for Osimhen,” the report notes, “but their interest has recently cooled.” It’s a line that may feel like déjà vu for fans used to watching priority targets head elsewhere.

Juventus in Quiet Contention

Juventus are reportedly building a quiet but calculated approach for Osimhen, especially with Dusan Vlahovic potentially leaving after the Club World Cup. Giuntoli’s relationship with Osimhen’s agent could yet play a pivotal role as the saga develops. Chelsea’s exit from the race may only increase interest from clubs sensing an opportunity.

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Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Let’s be honest — this isn’t about one striker. This is about a pattern that keeps repeating. Chelsea identify top talent, build the hype, dominate the headlines… then step away, leaving rivals to clean up the spoils. Victor Osimhen isn’t just a good striker — he’s a proven goalscorer, one who would instantly elevate any top-six attack.

Instead, fans are being sold on “alternatives” again. Viktor Gyokeres? Promising, sure, but largely untested at the level Chelsea aspire to reach. Benjamin Sesko? Talented, but raw. Liam Delap? A gamble at best.

When the likes of Manchester United and Juventus are doubling down on world-class names, Chelsea are blinking first. It makes you wonder about the long-term vision under this recruitment setup. they’ve spent heavily, yes — but have they spent wisely? And when a player as electric, athletic and hungry as Osimhen is within reach, why back off now?

It’s not just a missed signing. It feels like a missed statement. One more that rivals will remember — and capitalise on.