Chelsea warned Victor Osimhen can complete shock rival transfer on one condition - 'He would go'

Chelsea were one of the clubs linked with a move for Victor Osimhen in the summer transfer window, and came close to signing the Nigerian in the summer of 2024.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is convinced that Victor Osimhen would jump at the chance to join the Red Devils if they came calling.

The Nigerian striker sealed a £65m switch to Galatasaray this summer and has been in sensational form, netting an impressive 47 goals in 41 outings.

Osimhen has established himself as one of Europe's most prolific marksmen in recent seasons, playing a pivotal role in Napoli's Serie A triumph before his relationship with Antonio Conte deteriorated.

The 27-year-old appeared destined for Chelsea at one point, whilst Saudi Arabian outfits were also circling.

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Those potential transfers collapsed, however, leaving him with little option but to head to Turkey, where Galatasaray secured his services on loan last term.

United, Chelsea and Arsenal were all reportedly monitoring the striker's situation this summer, but each club ultimately pursued alternative targets.

It's a decision that has left former Sunderland forward Asamoah Gyan perplexed, who appeared on the latest episode of Rio Presents and suggested United will eventually make their move for Osimhen.

"Victor Osimhen, he loves scoring goals, he plays with his heart, and gives everything. I'm surprised big clubs didn't go for him in this transfer window," Gyan said.

"But hopefully, I'm feeling Manchester United too, only if he wants to come because of their history and everything."

Ferdinand concurred, stating: "Osimhen will come to United, if United offer to take Osimhen, he would go, 100%."

United, Chelsea and Arsenal all strengthened their striking departments during the summer, bringing in Benjamin Sesko, Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, and Viktor Gyokeres respectively.

Nevertheless, all four clubs have experienced difficulties this campaign, with former United midfielder Paul Scholes believing the Red Devils ought to have pursued Osimhen instead of Sesko.

Ex-Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel had hoped to see the Blues recruit his compatriot, prior to Delap's arrival.

In conversation with the Metro, Mikel revealed: "Everyone knows who I wanted to see come to the football club and who the fans wanted to see come to the football club.

"It is a shame he didn't come to Chelsea, the club he supported as a kid growing up, but they have decided to go in a different direction [signing Delap] which is fine, I hope it works out for him at the club.

"But I would have loved to see someone come in to hit the ground running straight away, who knows how to play in big games, in big competitions who has been there and done it. But we have to support Delap and make sure it works out for him."