'I don't know why' - 2013 Afcon winner blasts Osimhen's agent for blocking striker's move to Chelsea

2013 Africa Cup of Nations-winning striker Brown Ideye has raised questions over why Roberto Calenda, the agent of Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, appears reluctant for his client to join Chelsea.

The London club has expressed interest in signing the Napoli striker this summer, but negotiations have hit a snag due to financial disagreements.

Chelsea are reportedly interested in bringing Osimhen to Stamford Bridge on a loan deal, with a reduced wage package.

However, Osimhen is reportedly not open to a wage reduction and prefers a loan move that includes an obligatory option for a permanent transfer.

In addition to Chelsea, Osimhen has drawn interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli.

However, neither club has been willing to meet his valuation. The striker's contract with Napoli includes a release clause estimated between €120 million and €130 million.

While PSG failed to reach an agreement, Al Ahli submitted a bid worth between €65 million and €70 million — significantly below the release clause.

Taking to social media platform X, Ideye expressed his disappointment over what he perceives as a lack of respect for Osimhen from European clubs, despite the striker's impressive performances and accolades.

"It’s a shame they don’t rate him among the top strikers abroad, after an amazing season with his club and winning the African best player award,” the former striker posted.

The ex-Super Eagles forward also questioned Calenda's decision to discourage a move to Chelsea and offered his own advice to Osimhen.

He suggested that the 24-year-old should consider a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia and then return to European football in a couple of years.

"If I were him I would go to Saudi, play for 2 years then go back to Europe. He's still young. some players are doing that, I don’t know why his agent doesn’t allow him to take a pay cut and play in his dream club Chelsea, I think it is more than what we read online," he added.

Adeyemi Adewale

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