INTERVIEW I Journalist Simon Phillips: "Many at Chelsea would see Victor Osimhen as the dream striker signing"

Throughout the second half of the campaign, Premier League outfits Chelsea have been linked quite heavily with numerous stars within the top-flight Italian league such as Milan star Rafael Leao and Nigerian hit-man Victor Osimhen.

In addition, it seems that Inter are looking to take advantage of former Napoli defender Kalidou Kouliably’s difficult season at Chelsea since arriving last summer as the Nerazzurri are keen on acquiring the 31 year-old central defender as a replacement for Milan Skriniar, who is set to depart to PSG on a free transfer next season.

With plenty of speculation circulating across the Italian media, the Get Italian Football News team had Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips provide his insight on the London side in an exclusive interview.

While speaking to the site, Simon Phillips was first asked where Chelsea stand within their desire to acquire Rafael Leao, whose contract is set to expire in the summer of 2024 and the extension talks between both parties has seemingly reached a stand-still:

“Chelsea have an interest in Leao but they have been prioritizing other options ahead of him. There’s nothing new as far as I am aware.”

Phillips was also asked about Koulibaly’s future at Chelsea and whether Inter have submitted any concrete offers for the Senegalese defender:

“No approaches for Koulibaly from any club as of now. He is focusing on Chelsea for this season and is determined to turn his fortunes around. It could be a situation for the summer though, if approaches do come in.”

Furthermore, Phillips was questioned about Chelsea’s stance on Victor Osimhen after the Napoli striker revealed in an interview that he has always dreamt of playing within the Premier League:

“Osimhen is liked by Chelsea and many at the club would see him as the dream striker signing. But, he would not be cheap and Chelsea are weighing up other options as well. Osimhen will have a lot of interest coming in for him.”

Finally, Phillips was inquired about the Premier League’s interest in Dutchman Denzel Dumfries as they have been heavily invested in the Inter wing-back since the summer:

“Chelsea do not have an interest in Dumfries anymore since they have signed Malo Gusto. They now have Gusto and Reece James for the right hand side, and they see that as the future sorted there.”

Julian Faustini Ι GIFN