Transfers

Victor Osimhen is Chelsea’s main target

Chelsea have identified Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as their priority option amid the search for a striker to solve their goal-scoring woes, according to Calciomercato.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side want to land a No. 9 and are exploring a number of options across Europe, but it is reported that the 24-year-old Nigeria international would be a “dream” signing.

The Premier League side signed Nicolas Jackson from Villarreal in the summer but, with the 22-year-old having scored just two goals in nine games, it looks as though Chelsea are prioritising attacking reinforcements when the January window opens.

Osimhen’s contract at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium is set to expire in the summer of 2025 and recent reports indicated that little progress had been made over an extension. That could play into Chelsea’s hands if they make a move for him, while they are also looking to offload Romelu Lukaku — currently on loan at AS Roma — on a permanent basis.

The Blues are hoping any transfer fee received from such a deal will then be able to go towards meeting Osimhen’s transfer fee of around €120m. The Napoli frontman has maintained his form in Serie A this season, where he has scored six goals in eight league appearances.

Transfers

Disasi agrees personal terms with Aston Villa

Chelsea defender Axel Disasi is reportedly on the verge of joining Aston Villa after agreeing to personal terms ahead of a potential January transfer.

The Frenchman has struggled for regular game time at Stamford Bridge this season and is now set to make the move to Unai Emery’s side, who are looking to replace Diego Carlos following his recent departure.

According to Fabrizio Romano, via Football Transfer, Carlos joined Fenerbahce for €10 million, prompting Villa to identify Disasi as their ideal replacement. Romano shared on X:

“Axel Disasi has agreed on personal terms with Aston Villa.

“Disasi wants to join Villa despite interest from more clubs around Europe after direct talk with Unai Emery, crucial to get the green light.

“Deal now up to Chelsea and Villa to reach full agreement.”

Chelsea signed Disasi from AS Monaco for €45 million in 2023, but his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has dropped significantly to €20.9 million due to limited playing opportunities this season. The 25-year-old has only featured in six Premier League matches during the 2024-25 campaign and has been left out of Chelsea’s matchday squad eight times since Enzo Maresca’s arrival last summer.

Transfers

EPL: Nottingham Forest desperate to sell out-of-favor Emmanuel Dennis

Nottingham Forest are facing difficulties in offloading striker Emmanuel Dennis before the transfer window closes.

The Nigerian forward has been out of favor under manager Nuno Espirito Santo and has not made a single appearance this season. Dennis’ last game for Forest was against Crystal Palace in May 2023.

The 27-year-old, who has 18 months remaining on his contract, is proving challenging to sell due to his high wages. Dennis currently earns £4 million annually, making him a costly option for potential suitors.

Discussions are ongoing with Watford, but his former club cannot meet his salary demands. Sheffield Wednesday have also expressed interest, but reports indicate their offer falls short of Forest’s expectations.

Transfers

Belgian club, KAS Eupen secure Nigerian striker Ejike on loan

Belgian club KAS Eupen has secured Nigerian striker Philip Ejike on a loan deal from Bulgarian side PFK Montana.

The agreement includes an option for the Pandas to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

Ejike impressed during his stint at PFK Montana, tallying 11 goals and two assists in 21 appearances.

The talented forward is set to join his new teammates in training immediately and could make his debut as early as Tuesday when KAS Eupen takes on SC Lokeren-Temse.

Mersad Selimbegovic’s team currently sits 13th in the league standings.