Former Chelsea and Nigeria international, Celestine Babayaro,has called on the Blues to pursue Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in the upcoming transfer window, insisting the duo could significantly enhance the squad under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Babayaro, who played for Chelsea from 1997 to 2005, believes the Nigerian forwards would be an ideal fit for the club and could elevate them into genuine title contenders.
In an interview with AfricaFoot, the ex-Newcastle defender suggested that Chelsea could explore a swap deal involving Nicolas Jackson to facilitate at least one of the transfers.
“Lookman and Osimhen would fit in perfectly at Chelsea,” Babayaro said. “It’s obvious they would have an immediate impact there if signed. Look, we’re talking about two of the best strikers in Europe right now. African players have always excelled at Chelsea, and these two would be no different.
“They would form the core of the club and make the team instant contenders. They’re also a good buy because they each have one year left on their contracts. In one of the deals, probably Osimhen’s, they could trade Jackson (Nicolas), which I think would be a smart move.”
Lookman has been a standout performer for Atalanta this season, notching 18 goals and six assists in 31 appearances.
His stellar form has drawn interest from several top clubs, including Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal.
With only a year left on his contract, Atalanta may be forced to cash in on him this summer.
Osimhen, meanwhile, is set to return to Napoli after a successful loan spell at Galatasaray, where he has scored 23 goals and provided five assists in 29 games.
Despite his impressive performances, the 26-year-old’s future remains uncertain, with Napoli reportedly demanding over £70 million for their star forward.
Chelsea’s struggles in front of goal have been well documented, with Nicolas Jackson showing potential but lacking consistency.
Injuries to Christopher Nkunku and the need for more attacking firepower have left the Blues searching for reinforcements.
With Cole Palmer thriving in a creative role, the addition of Osimhen and Lookman could provide the clinical edge Chelsea desperately needs.
Babayaro’s endorsement of the duo—both recent winners of the African Footballer of the Year award—further underscores their quality.
Chelsea is expected to be active in the transfer market, and acquiring two of Africa’s top attacking talents would make a strong statement ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Whether the club heeds Babayaro’s advice remains to be seen, but a move for Lookman or Osimhen could be the attacking boost Chelsea needs.
