Liverpool reach ‘Victor Osimhen agreement’ as Jurgen Klopp eyes Chelsea revenge

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Jurgen Klopp missed out on Liverpool transfer target he wanted before Sadio Mane

Liverpool have reportedly struck an agreement that could see them sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen from under the noses of Chelsea. The Reds have been an admirer of the Nigeria international for some time and it appears Jurgen Klopp may have pulled off a major transfer coup by stealing a march on the Blues.

Reports in Italy claim the Merseyside outfit have secured an agreement with Osimhen’s representatives, which have subsequently convinced the striker to end negotiations with Napoli over a new contract.

The 24-year-old has struck 56 goals in 91 Serie A appearances since his big-money switch from Lille in 2021 and is regarded as one of the most lethal marksmen in European football.

According to Italian journalist Valter De Maggio, speaking on Televomero via Area Napoli, Liverpool have ‘already reached agreements’ with Osimhen’s agents. And that has scuppered talks with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis to extend his deal, with his future now looking uncertain.

Liverpool’s agreement is said to be with the player only, however, meaning they would still need to negotiate with the Serie A club. De Laurentiis has proven to be a notoriously tough negotiator in the past and would likely demand in excess of £100million for their target man, who has six goals in eight appearances this season.

Osimhen’s contract is due to expire in June 2025, giving Napoli a risky choice of trying to change his mind or selling up while he still retains a high market value. And the Reds may look to exploit that if they follow through on a move for the in-form striker.

It is claimed that Osimhen and his agent, Roberto Calenda, ‘went back on their word’ after an ‘inclusion’ from Liverpool, having originally stated his desire to remain in Naples. The situation has changed over the past month, however, following a recent row between the striker and the club.

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A video posted from the club’s official TikTok account in September appeared to mock Osimhen, leaving the striker furious over the matter. The Italian champions released a statement apologising to him and sacked the member of staff responsible, but the damage may have already been done.

It would represent a massive blow for Chelsea if Liverpool were to edge ahead in the race for Osimhen’s signature, with Mauricio Pochettino keen to sign a natural goalscorer in the January transfer market.

Klopp may regard it as a matter of gaining revenge after losing out to the west London club on two players this summer. Chelsea agreed deals for Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, splashing out £173m on the pair from Brighton and Southampton, after the Anfield club were in talks.

But now, the German could leave them wanting if he manages to lure Osimhen to Merseyside next summer.

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