Osimhen to solve Chelsea striker woes? Ex-Arsenal star makes bold Premier League claim

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has backed Victor Osimhen as the striker capable of finally ending Chelsea FC’s long-running problems in front of goal, Afrik-Foot reports.

Petit is convinced that the Super Eagles striker has the personality and power to succeed at Stamford Bridge where others have failed in recent years.

A year after Chelsea passed up the chance to sign Osimhen, letting the forward complete a permanent switch to Galatasaray, talks of finding a successor to Didier Drogba has resurfaced.

The Blues have struggled for years to replace Drogba’s presence, with several high-profile forwards failing to deliver consistently in the demanding environment of the Premier League.

Osimhen, now a fan favourite at Galatasaray SK, has continued his impressive scoring form. Across all competitions this season, the 27-year-old has delivered 20 goals and added several assists to boost his reputation as one of most reliable forwards on the planet. His sharp movement, aerial strength and relentless pressing have made him a constant threat, building on his earlier success with SSC Napoli.

Speaking on Andy’s Bet Club, Petit admitted he was surprised the striker did not move to England earlier in his career.

“Victor Osimhen is doing well with Galatasaray but when he left Napoli, I was hoping that he was going to come to the Premier League, I have no idea why he chose Galatasaray.”

The Frenchman believes Chelsea’s struggles in the No.9 position have become almost psychological over time.

“Since Drogba, I think there’s been a curse around the number nine at Chelsea. I think it’s different with Osimhen because this guy has a really big personality and character, he could be the man to break that curse.”

Osimhen’s Premier League dream

Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen remains strong heading into the summer of 2026, but a deal is far from straightforward.

The club see him as a ‘dream signing’ while the Nigeria international has never hidden his desire to play in the Premier League. Yet financial realities continue to shape negotiations.

Galatasaray have declared they have no intention of parting ways with Osimhen any time soon and it could take an offer of at least £100 million to convince the Turkish giants to wave goodbye to their prized asset.

Still, the biggest challenge in signing Osimhen lies in wages. The striker currently earns close to €290,000 per week, and Chelsea are cautious about breaking their structured pay system. There is also heavy competition. Clubs such as Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Manchester United and Arsenal FC are all monitoring his situation closely, turning any potential deal into a race against time.

Petit, however, remains convinced Osimhen has what it takes to shine in England.

“The way he plays on the pitch is a pain for defenders,” he added. “This guy is very aggressive. He has something to prove. After he left France for Napoli, he did great in Italy. But then he was fighting with the president of Napoli, and then he went to Galatasaray.”

He also pointed to the striker’s long-term potential at the very top level.

“I think Osimhen has many seasons to play at the highest level. So I think that could be something very, very good for the Premier League. I think he has the character, the personality, and the background to play in the Premier League.”

Osimhen has won the league title in two of the last three years in Italy and Turkey and looks set to make it three this afternoon when Galatasaray take on Samsunspor.

An away win for the Lions will seal a historic 26th Super Lig honour with two games to spare.