Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli are optimistic of sealing a deal for Victor Osimhen, talkSPORT understands.
Saudi Pro League sporting director Michael Emenalo is in direct talks with Napoli and Osimhen to secure the Nigerian’s signature.
Al Ahli are willing to pay Napoli £52million plus add-ons and wages and bonuses worth £134m.
The news will come as a blow to Chelsea who have been heavily linked with a move for the player.
The Blues have also held talks with Osimhen this week but do not want to overspend on the deal.
Chelsea are trying to bring their wage bill down in the final week of the transfer window.
This is after making 10 new signings, including Joao Felix, Pedro Neto and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
Osimhen is a top target for Enzo Maresca‘s side, meaning that a potential move to Saudi Arabia would be a big blow.
The 25-year-old isn’t the only striker on Al Ahli’s radar though.
Al Ahli are still interested in Ivan Toney but are unlikely to sign both the Brentford striker and Osimhen.
Toney has already verbally agreed a three-year contract worth an eye-watering £50m with Al Ahli, however they still need to agree a fee with Brentford.
Chelsea are keeping tabs on Toney’s situation, with a move for the England international a possibility if they do miss out on Osimhen.
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Osimhen has established himself as one of the top strikers in world football after scoring 76 goals in 133 games for Napoli.
His tally of 17 in 32 last term has put him on the radar of several top clubs, with a move away from Naples now looking increasingly likely.
For Chelsea, there are still likely to be outgoings as well as incomings as they look to trim down their squad.
Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell are the latest to be exiled from the first team.
“They (Sterling and Chilwell) are training apart,” Maresca said on Wednesday.
“We have a big squad and it is impossible to give them all minutes. If they are looking for minutes, then it is better if they leave.
“If they do not leave, then they have a contract here and they are Chelsea players.”
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