Napoli have reportedly attempted to kick-start negotiations with Chelsea to find a resolution for Victor Osimhen and Romelu Lukaku.
Throughout the summer transfer window, it has been well-documented that Napoli would like to sign Lukaku as a replacement for Osimhen.
However, their differing valuations has added a layer of complexity to talks with none of the respective parties seemingly prepared to budge.
As well as Napoli and Chelsea having their own asking prices in mind, Osimhen and his agent have made it clear that he will not be used to initially sign for Chelsea on a season-long loan deal.
That has subsequently led to an impasse where Osimhen and Lukaku are now waiting for developments at a time when Chelsea continue to spend money in the final third.
Nevertheless, it now appears that the onus is on Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital to decide whether they wish to accept Napoli's efforts to resolve matters.
© Imago
Napoli put together elaborate part-exchange proposal
According to Il Mattino, Napoli have given Chelsea the opportunity to sign Osimhen if they meet their latest demands.
In return for Osimhen making the switch to Stamford Bridge, Napoli want to receive Lukaku as part of a part-exchange deal that would also include a fee of €45m (£38.64m).
Furthermore, the 2022-23 Serie A champions are said to be keen for Cesare Casadei to also make the switch to Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Casadei was one of the players who was not included by Enzo Maresca for Chelsea's pre-season tour of the United States and is available for transfer.
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How will Chelsea respond?
While such a deal is difficult to assess in terms of money, the proposal appears to be better value for Chelsea than spending in excess of £100m on Osimhen.
Casadei is allegedly interested in securing a return to his homeland and finalising his part of the transfer will likely be a foregone conclusion.
The same applies to Lukaku, who is said to be open to accepting a pay-cut to reunite with Antonio Conte, which effectively leaves Chelsea and Osimhen as the factors that are undecided.
Realistically, Osimhen having a change of heart and accepting a reduction in wages might be what is required to get a deal over the line.
Darren Plant
