Former Nigeria and Chelsea star Celestine Babayaro has urged the Blues to make a bold move for compatriots Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen in the upcoming transfer window. He believes their arrival would instantly improve Chelsea’s attacking firepower under Enzo Maresca.
Babayaro, who played for Chelsea from 1997 to 2005, also suggested that the club could use Senegalese forward Nicolas Jackson in a swap deal to facilitate the signing of either Lookman or Osimhen.
Babayaro: Chelsea Must Go Big on Lookman and Osimhen
Speaking exclusively to Kick Off Nigeria, the 46-year-old former left-back insisted that the duo would transform Chelsea into Premier League title contenders.
“Lookman and Osimhen would be a perfect fit at Chelsea,” Babayaro said. “It’s a no-brainer—they would make an instant impact if they got signed. We’re talking about two of the best forwards in Europe right now. African players have always excelled at Chelsea, and these two would be no different. They would form the core of the team and make Chelsea instant competitors.”
“They’re also a smart investment because each will have just a year left on their contract. In Osimhen’s case, Chelsea could negotiate a swap deal involving Nicolas Jackson—I think that would be shrewd business,” Babayaro added.
Transfer Speculation: Lookman and Osimhen on the Move?
Lookman has been heavily linked with a move away from Atalanta, with clubs such as Liverpool, PSG, and Arsenalreportedly monitoring his situation. The 26-year-old winger has been in top form, scoring 18 goals and providing six assists in 31 matches this season.
Related article: Lookman’s Stellar Performance at Atalanta: Salary, Transfer Value, and Prospects
Meanwhile, Osimhen is set to return to Napoli after his loan spell at Galatasaray ends. The Nigerian striker has been in sensational goal-scoring form, netting 23 goals and registering five assists in 29 appearances for the Turkish giants.
With Chelsea desperate for attacking reinforcements, a summer swoop for Lookman and Osimhen could be on the cards, especially with Babayaro advocating for their arrival at Stamford Bridge.
