Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has named several European giants as potential destinations for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, predicting that a major transfer could be on the horizon for the 26-year-old this summer.
Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Chelle also addressed Osimhen’s absence from Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures, attributing it to the player’s demanding season and the mental strain of ongoing transfer speculation.
“Victor is, for me, the best striker in the world,” Chelle said. “For him, it’s difficult to come for this match, because he played a season under pressure.”
Osimhen, who has consistently been linked with a number of top clubs across Europe following another strong season in Italy, is now at the centre of heightened transfer interest.
According to Chelle, the current uncertainty surrounding the forward’s future requires careful management.
“The reality is that there is a transfer window,” he explained. “During that time, a player like him is not 100% focused. I have to protect him physically and mentally, because he could well leave [and get a transfer].”
Chelle went on to list a number of elite European clubs he believes could be lining up for Osimhen’s signature.
“Maybe a club like Manchester United. Or maybe Chelsea, Barcelona, or Real Madrid. So he has to focus on that.”
Osimhen’s form in recent years has established him as one of the most sought-after forwards in world football. His pace, power, and goalscoring instinct have seen him draw admiration from across the continent, with speculation mounting over a potential big-money move away from Serie A.
While Chelle refrained from confirming any specific talks or offers, his comments suggest that both the Nigerian camp and Osimhen himself are aware of the high stakes and imminent decisions that could define the striker’s next career chapter.
The coach also made it clear that Osimhen’s European future holds significant importance for the Nigerian national team. Remaining in one of Europe’s top leagues, Chelle implied, would be beneficial not only for the player’s development but also for his continued impact with the Super Eagles.
A move to a club with Champions League ambitions and top-tier competition would, in Chelle’s view, keep Osimhen performing at the highest level, which in turn could translate into stronger performances on the international stage.
Despite the uncertainty, Chelle expressed full support for his star striker and reiterated the importance of allowing players the space and protection they need during pivotal moments in their careers.
For now, all eyes remain on Osimhen and the summer transfer window, with interest from clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea, Barcelona, and Real Madrid continuing to fuel speculation. Wherever he ends up, the expectation is that the Nigerian forward will remain a central figure in both club and country in the years to come.
