Former Super Eagles star John Mikel Obi has disclosed details about Victor Osimhen’s near transfer to Chelsea this summer.
Mr Obi revealed that the deal was “very, very close” but was truncated due to last-minute complications.
Speaking on his podcast, Mr Obi, who played a role in the negotiations, stated that unforeseen “slight issues” prevented the move from materialising in the final hours.
According to him, some of the issues included the lack of time for the player to undergo his medicals as required.
Mr Obi emphasised that Osimhen was not motivated by greed but was simply seeking a fair deal.
“I know Victor since he joined the national team. He’s not a greedy player. He wasn’t asking for an outrageous salary; he just wanted what he deserved,” Mr Obi explained.
The former Chelsea midfielder added that the deal’s collapse was not due to financial disagreements but logistical challenges that emerged too late in the process.
“We were very close – just hours away – but there was no time to conduct the medical, even if the deal had gone through,” he said.
Mr Obi expressed optimism about resuming talks in January, indicating that all parties know exactly where to pick up from.
