Victor Osimhen has become one of the hottest topics in the transfer market this summer as the Nigerian international is expected to leave Napoli despite signing a contract extension with the club last December.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League, with clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea reportedly interested in his signature.

Recently, Paris Saint-Germain also entered the fray, with reports indicating that the French champions have agreed on personal terms with the reigning African Footballer of the Year.

Despite the interest, Osimhen's release clause has become a major stumbling block to his move away from the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.

According to the latest reports, Napoli are currently in discussions with Chelsea over a possible deal for Romelu Lukaku, which would see Victor Osimhen move in the opposite direction.

The Athletic reports that Lukaku's move to Napoli is expected to be permanent, while Osimhen’s move to Stamford Bridge would be a season-long loan with an option to buy.

The move would see Lukaku reunite with his former manager Antonio Conte in Italy. They previously worked together at Inter Milan, where they won the Scudetto in 2021. Under Conte, Lukaku scored 34 goals in the 2019-20 season and 30 in the 2020-21 season.

On the other hand, Osimhen has not shied away from his dream of playing in the Premier League and could follow in the footsteps of his idol Didier Drogba at Stamford Bridge.

🚨 Napoli in ongoing talks with Chelsea to sign Romelu Lukaku while discussions between #SSCNapoli & #CFC also taking place about move for Victor Osimhen in opposite direction. Lukaku would be permanent, Osimhen season-long loan + buy option @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/9YTNV3sN7V

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 30, 2024