Chelsea know time is slipping.
Enzo Maresca talked up Nicolas Jackson as the “perfect nine.” But perfection doesn’t miss sitters. And in the second half of the season, that’s all Jackson seemed to do.
So Chelsea look elsewhere.
Victor Osimhen is still Plan A. That hasn’t changed. But Napoli are stubborn, and Osimhen’s demands? Even steeper.
Cue Plan B: Ollie Watkins.
He’s 29. Premier League proven. No language barrier. No adjustment curve. Just goals. Sixteen this season. Thirteen assists. Relentless. [Source: Football Transfers]
According to Football Transfers report, Chelsea are ready to match Aston Villa’s £60 million price tag. Arsenal and United lurk, but the Blues are willing to strike early—especially if the Osimhen deal crumbles again like last year.
John Obi Mikel—Osimhen’s compatriot and Chelsea alum—is working behind the scenes to sway the Napoli forward. But even he knows: loyalty to dreams can waver under pressure. Champions League nights are calling. But so are delays.
And Watkins? He’s ready now.
Under Unai Emery, he’s been electric. But at 29, he knows this is the last chance for a big move. Stamford Bridge offers history. Spotlight. Purpose.
Chelsea may yet land Osimhen. But Watkins isn’t a consolation prize. He’s a trigger. One that could fire Chelsea into the top four again.
Sometimes Plan B is the real Plan A.