Victor Osimhen has always dreamed of playing for Chelsea, inspired by his idol Didier Drogba.
He grew up in Olusosun, Lagos, dreaming of wearing Chelsea blue and scoring at Stamford Bridge, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports.
Now a top striker in Europe, Osimhen seemed destined for a Premier League move.
Last summer, Chelsea made a serious approach to sign him from Napoli.
They reportedly offered him €4 million per year, with a promise to double it if they made the Champions League.
Chelsea were willing to meet Napoli’s transfer fee demands, which was never the issue.
However, the deal broke down due to the harsh UK tax environment.
In the UK, earnings above £125,000 attract a 45% income tax rate, excluding National Insurance.
To match his net salary in Italy, a Premier League club must offer £17–18 million per year gross.
This would place Osimhen above Chelsea’s top earner, Reece James, who earns £250,000 weekly before tax.
Restructuring the wage system for Osimhen would cause financial imbalance in Chelsea’s squad.
Because of that, Chelsea backed out, despite their genuine interest in the Nigerian star.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray took advantage and signed Osimhen on loan for the 2024/25 season.
He delivered an incredible season in Turkey, scoring 36 goals and providing 7 assists.
His goals led Galatasaray to win the league, Turkish Cup, and Super Cup.
Despite his success, Premier League clubs remain cautious about signing him.
Manchester United have also backed off due to Financial Fair Play concerns.
They now focus on younger, affordable talents like Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap.
Italy’s tax system favours foreign players, making high salaries easier for clubs like Napoli.
For now, Osimhen’s Chelsea dream remains a dream, alive but distant.
Unless tax laws change or clubs take a bold step, his future lies elsewhere.
He may still conquer Europe, just not in the shirt he once imagined.
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