According to sources cited in transfer updates and insider reports as of February 2025–2026 window discussions, the deal structure is advanced: Napoli (or Galatasaray, depending on loan status) has agreed to a transfer fee in the €70–80 million range plus add-ons, the project’s vision under Liam Rosenior has been approved, and personal terms—including a substantial salary package—have been largely settled. Osimhen, the Nigerian international who has been heavily linked with Chelsea for multiple windows, remains one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards due to his goalscoring record and physical presence.
However, the move has hit a major roadblock. Osimhen has allegedly made it clear he will not share a dressing room with one specific Chelsea player, stemming from an explosive fallout during the last international break with Nigeria. The incident reportedly involved a heated exchange or disagreement that escalated significantly, leaving lingering bad blood. While the identity of the player has not been publicly confirmed, speculation among fans and media has centered on high-profile names in the squad—particularly those with strong personalities or overlapping positions/roles—who might have crossed paths with Osimhen in international duty or prior encounters.
The revelation has sent Chelsea’s recruitment team into panic mode. With the striker market tight and Osimhen viewed as a priority target to solve the club’s ongoing issues up front (Nicolas Jackson’s inconsistency and injury concerns among backups), the condition creates an impossible dilemma. Chelsea are said to be weighing whether to meet the demand by moving on the unnamed player, explore alternatives, or risk losing Osimhen entirely to rivals or a Saudi Pro League return.
Fans are desperately trying to guess the identity of the “blocking” Blues star, with social media theories ranging from senior figures in attack or midfield to defensive players with international ties. Discussions have exploded online, with many expressing frustration: “If true, who is worth losing Osimhen over?” and “Chelsea can’t afford another dressing room drama.” Others question the reliability of the reports, noting Osimhen’s history of intense transfer sagas and occasional temperament issues (including past Napoli fallout and international moments).
Osimhen himself has not commented publicly, and neither Chelsea nor his representatives have confirmed the details. The Nigerian remains on loan at Galatasaray (with a potential break clause), but his preference for a return to top European competition—especially the Premier League—has kept Chelsea in the frame. Previous attempts to sign him (notably in summer 2024) collapsed over wages, timing, and Napoli’s stance, but this window feels different amid renewed urgency at Stamford Bridge.
The situation underscores Chelsea’s ongoing striker search challenges under the current ownership era. If the condition holds, it could force a rethink on targets or squad dynamics. For now, the deal hangs in the balance, with fans and pundits alike watching closely for any resolution or further leaks.
