Chelsea will compete with several clubs to sign 18-year-old Nigerian defensive prodigy Vince Osuji from Swedish club Kalmar FF next year.
According to a report by Belgian outlet Voetbal Nieuws, Vince Osuji is the subject of interest from Chelsea. The Blues are scouring the market for a young centre-back ahead of the two transfer windows next year. So, the 18-year-old Kalmar FF defensive prodigy has emerged as a target for the West London outfit.
Who is Vince Osuji?
Vince Osuji has made considerable progress since joining Kalmar FF earlier this year. A native of Nigeria, the African defender spent most of his formative years in his homeland but has risen in prominence since joining the Swedish outfit in April 2024.
While Kalmar FF suffered relegation from Allsvenskan by a narrow margin, Osuji has made his mark in his short spell thus far with the Swedish club. The 18-year-old has turned out 16 times for the Red Brothers while chipping in with one goal.
Despite Kalmar FF’s relegation, Osuji’s stock soared, with several well-known clubs across Europe setting their sights on him. The report by Voetbal Nieuws has claimed that Anderlecht, Club Brugge, Bologna, Lyon, Stade Reims, PAOK, FC Dallas, and FC Cincinnati are keen on signing the Nigerian defensive prodigy. In addition, the teenage prospect is a target for Chelsea.
London calling?
Chelsea’s interest in Vince Osuji is somewhat surprising yet understandable. Wesley Fofana has established himself as the undisputed first-choice centre-back alongside Levi Colwill. In addition, summer arrival Tosin Adarabioyo is a reliable central defender for Chelsea. However, Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile face an uncertain future at the West London club.
So, several centre-backs, including Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo, have emerged on Chelsea’s radar. However, Osuji is also a viable target, considering Enzo Maresca can mould the African defensive prospect in his image and make him a long-term asset for the West London club.
While Chelsea will face stiff competition from Anderlecht, Club Brugge, Bologna, Lyon, Stade Reims, PAOK, FC Dallas, and FC Cincinnati, they should fancy their prospects of landing Osuji. However, game-time assurances will be a crucial factor in driving the 18-year-old Nigerian defender’s decision.
