Premier League club Chelsea have taken a major step towards signing Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, as recent reports indicate that the Blues have initiated talks with the player's representatives regarding his salary demands.

Despite Chelsea's keen interest in the Nigerian goal poacher, his €12 million-per-year salary demand has become a major stumbling block to his move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea came close to signing the Napoli striker last summer, but the deal fell through on transfer deadline day due to disagreements over the player's personal terms.

However, recent reports from FootballTransfers indicate that the London club is exploring ways to resolve the salary issue by restructuring their internal wage framework to accommodate the signing of the Super Eagles star.

"Osimhen wants to join Chelsea, and Chelsea wants to sign Osimhen. A deal is complicated due to his wage demands," the outlet reported.

"The Blues are now exploring potential ways to structure a deal that aligns with their internal wage framework, although Osimhen is unlikely to lower his salary expectations without incentives built into the contract."

"If an agreement can’t be reached, we have been told that Chelsea will pivot to alternative targets," FootballTransfers reported.

Osimhen has been in sensational form since completing his season-long loan to Galatasaray from Napoli last September.

The 26-year-old has registered 33 goals in 38 competitive appearances for the Turkish Süper Lig giants.

WDN