Chelsea have reportedly informed Victor Osimhen that they are willing to move forward on a late move that could cost well over £60million if the striker is happy to concede on his wage demands.
The Athletic claim that Osimhen has held extensive talks with the Blues, but the club are awaiting the green light from the 25-year-old over whether he will agree to fit in with their incentive-based salary structure.
Under the Todd Boehly hierarchy, Chelsea have attempted to slash the amount of money spent on wages by as much as 50 per cent despite their bloated squad, but it remains to be seen whether Osimhen is willing to follow suit.
Related articles
The forward also has a contract offer on the table from Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, who also have a plan in place to sign Brentford's Ivan Toney if Osimhen decides to head to Stamford Bridge.
If Osimhen's representatives, who have previously denounced the idea of their client heading to the Middle East, tell Chelsea that he is willing to fall in line with the finances on offer - a transfer is expected to be swiftly concluded.
Chelsea are happy with Enzo Maresca's squad and will be content if Osimhen turns down their proposal, but are willing to move forward for the Nigerian if a late opportunity in the window presents itself.
Earlier this week, Osimhen's agent wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter): "Osimhen is a Napoli player, with a contract recently renewed with mutual satisfaction. He made history and when there were major offers (also this year) we always accepted the club's decisions.
"As I said, it is not a package to be shipped far away to make room for new prophets. Victor was elected African footballer of the year, eighth at the Ballon d'Or, he still has so much to do in Europe. There is need respect and balance."
Chelsea have until 11pm on Friday to get a deal done.
It has proven to be a very busy deadline day for Chelsea, who are attempting to move on their 'bomb squad' currently training away from Maresca's first-team group.
That includes Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell, who have been the subject of talks with rivals Manchester United, with the prospect of Jadon Sancho heading in the opposite direction.
