Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has advised Napoli striker Victor Osimhen to join Chelsea instead of rivals Manchester United or Liverpool.

Osimhen last summer was one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe after leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years. Aside from helping his side win the league, the Nigeria international also broke several individual records.

He became the first African footballer to win the league’s Golden Boot (Capocannoniere) after scoring 26 goals in 32 appearances. He also became the first African player with the most goals in a single Serie A season surpassing the 21-goal record set by Samuel Eto’o in the 2009/10 season also breaking the African record for the most goals by a player in the Serie A, surpassing the 46 goals scored by AC Milan legend George Weah.

He was sought after by some of the biggest clubs in Europe including Chelsea, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich Arsenal, and a host of others, however, most clubs were warded off by Napoli’s bogus €150 million fee.

Osimhen’s resolve and that of Napoli was tempted by Saudi Arabia’s big spenders Al-Hilal who launched a serious attempt to sign Osimhen in the summer, offering up to €200m to Napoli, which was eventually rejected.

Speaking on the Saudi Arabia €200m bid, Osimhen admitted while speaking on The Obi One Podcast hosted by former Nigeria and Chelsea player, John Mikel Obi that he was tempted to accept the offer to go to Saudi Arabia as the money would have been life-changing for him.

“What was said is true. I have to be honest, I never thought about leaving last summer because Napoli wanted to keep me, but when the offer came from Saudi Arabia, a huge offer, it was hard to refuse. I spoke to Napoli and decided to stay.

“The more I said no, the more they increased the financial offer. It would have changed my life, they never gave up. But I said, no guys, I’m staying.”

Also read: Misfiring Isaac Success will score 10 goals, says Udinese manager

Mikel has also called on the Nigerian to join Chelsea next summer as he believes he would be an instant hit with the club and the fans. 

“Next season I know you will come to Chelsea man! I tell you, I will be the agent who will broker that deal. I will make sure it happens. We are desperate for someone like you since Drogba left the club.”