Liverpool Plot Ambitious Swap Deal for Osimhen
Interest grows in Napoli striker amid Nunez and Chiesa links
Liverpool are considering a high-profile move for Napoli forward Victor Osimhen, with Italian outlet Tutto Mercato Web suggesting an audacious swap proposal involving Darwin Nunez and Juventus winger Federico Chiesa.
After a summer already defined by decisive business — notably securing Florian Wirtz in a club-record deal — the Anfield hierarchy could yet make another major statement. Reports suggest a package has been discussed that would see two high-calibre players head in the opposite direction, potentially allowing Liverpool to avoid a direct cash payment for the Nigerian international.
Nunez facing uncertain Liverpool future
Darwin Nunez has remained under scrutiny since his arrival from Benfica, and his place under new manager Arne Slot is far from guaranteed. While the Uruguayan forward brings explosive energy and unpredictability, questions about his consistency have persisted. Now, with Liverpool open to offers, he could be used as leverage in negotiations for Osimhen.
Napoli are believed to be open to selling the 26-year-old after failing to offload him last summer, despite significant interest. Osimhen spent part of last season on loan at Galatasaray and continues to attract attention from across Europe, including long-standing admirers Manchester United.
Chiesa’s Italy future adds urgency
Chiesa, too, is entering a pivotal phase in his career. With Gennaro Gattuso taking charge of Italy, the message is clear: regular playing time is essential. The winger has found form sporadically at Juventus and could be open to a fresh challenge if it means increased minutes.
“I spoke to many players who missed out on the squad,” Gattuso revealed this week. “Even Chiesa. I told him — you have to play consistently.”
Liverpool have maintained an interest in Chiesa for several windows. His inclusion in a swap for Osimhen may seem counterintuitive on the surface, but it could reflect a broader reshuffle in Slot’s attacking plans. The Dutchman is reportedly eager to introduce a more fluid front line, with Wirtz and Luis Díaz playing central roles.
Osimhen bides time amid United interest
While Liverpool are actively pursuing options, Osimhen’s future is far from settled. The forward is known to have turned down a lucrative move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, potentially in the hope of securing a Premier League switch.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand hinted at Osimhen’s intentions: “He’s not going to Al-Hilal. He must be waiting for Manchester United. That’s who I’d sign.”
United, however, have yet to make a formal approach, and with Erik ten Hag’s situation at Old Trafford only recently resolved, their transfer strategy is still taking shape. In the meantime, Liverpool may sense an opportunity to move decisively — just as they did with Wirtz — and beat their rivals to one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers.
Challenges remain in complex deal
While the concept of a Nunez and Chiesa swap for Osimhen makes headlines, it also faces real-world obstacles. Swap deals, particularly involving multiple top-level players, are notoriously difficult to execute. Contract demands, image rights, agent fees, and player preferences all add layers of complexity.
Nevertheless, Liverpool’s willingness to explore such options underlines a growing ambition at the club. With major changes in both management and personnel, this summer could mark a transformative chapter in the post-Klopp era — and Osimhen may yet become its defining name.
