Hasselbaink: Chelsea right to snub Osimhen

Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink says the club made the right call by not renewing their interest in Victor Osimhen this summer, describing the Nigerian as ‘unconvincing’ for Premier League football.

Osimhen, who nearly joined Chelsea last year, returned to Napoli following a brilliant loan spell at Galatasaray, where he netted 37 goals and won the Turkish Super Lig and Cup. Despite his impressive form, Chelsea opted instead to sign Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, passing on the £64m release clause attached to the Nigerian international.

Speaking on John Obi Mikel’s ‘Obi One Podcast’, Hasselbaink explained his doubts:

“I know he’s your countryman, but I’m not convinced of Osimhen for the Premier League. For Spain, for Italy – yes. For the Premier League? I’m not 100 per cent sure.’

The Dutchman instead backed current Blues forward Nicolas Jackson, calling him a high-energy forward with untapped potential.

‘I really like Jackson,’ he said. ‘He brings a lot of energy to the team—pressing, work-rate, all the things people don’t see. He gets chances, so now it’s about improving his finishing and decision-making.’

Jackson, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal, has shown flashes of brilliance but remains inconsistent. Hasselbaink insists that’s normal for a young striker adapting to top-flight expectations.

Meanwhile, Delap, who scored 12 goals for Ipswich in his debut Premier League campaign, adds healthy competition. Former Chelsea and England defender Ashley Cole has urged fans to give Delap time to develop under pressure.

‘He’s young and learning. Let’s be patient,’ said Cole.