Chelsea have made signing an elite No. 9 their top transfer priority as Xabi Alonso prepares for his first Premier League season in charge at Stamford Bridge.
Alonso officially takes over as Chelsea head coach on July 1 after signing a four-year contract, following the dismissals of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. The club finished 10th in the 2025/26 Premier League season and missed out on Champions League football, with Alonso stating his focus is on instilling the right culture and winning trophies.
The Spaniard has reportedly told Chelsea’s hierarchy that a proven striker, an experienced goalkeeper, and a ball-playing centre-back are his first three targets. Victor Osimhen, 27, has emerged at the top of that striker shortlist.
The Nigeria international scored 22 goals in 29 starts for Galatasaray this season and intermediaries have already held conversations about his availability. Galatasaray are reluctant to sell and would demand around €100 million, or £87.1 million, to sanction a transfer.
Why the move now? Chelsea’s need for a reliable, elite-level No. 9 remains clear despite strong performances from several attacking players. Alonso’s appointment is viewed as a factor that could help attract top talent even without Champions League football next season.
Sources close to Osimhen view Stamford Bridge as a realistic destination, and his representatives are actively exploring elite-level opportunities across Europe. Chelsea have admired the former Napoli forward for several years, and discussions have started behind the scenes about a possible move. Approaches are expected in the coming period as the club shifts its transfer strategy toward more established signings under Alonso.