Nigeria international Victor Osimhen is reportedly eager to join Manchester United during the upcoming summer transfer window. The 26-year-old forward is set to leave Napoli on a permanent basis.
Sources indicate that the Super Eagles striker is highly appreciative of the interest from Manchester United, who are currently the frontrunners for his signature among several European clubs.
Currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, Osimhen has delivered an outstanding performance this season, scoring 20 goals and providing five assists in 27 matches across all competitions. This has bolstered his reputation as one of Europe’s most dangerous forwards.
Osimhen is expected to be available for around £62 million (€75 million) due to a release clause in his contract, making him an enticing option despite the significant interest from clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Arsenal.
Manchester United’s interest aligns with manager Ruben Amorim’s efforts to strengthen the team’s goal-scoring capabilities, as current striker Rasmus Hojlund has struggled, scoring in only two Premier League games since December.
Reports suggest that Manchester United may consider including Hojlund in a potential swap deal with Napoli, offering approximately £33 million (€40 million) along with the forward. However, there are indications that United may opt to directly trigger Osimhen’s release clause.
In addition, Arsenal has reached out to Osimhen’s representatives and is prepared to activate his release clause as they seek a reliable striker to enhance their attacking lineup.
Despite the ongoing speculation, Osimhen has remained noncommittal about his future, expressing his love for Galatasaray and his focus on the present during a recent press conference.
The Galatasaray loan star has not dismissed the idea of continuing with the Turkish club, which reportedly had a €65 million bid rejected by Napoli earlier this year. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has reiterated that any interested club must meet the full €75 million release clause.
Should he move to Old Trafford, Osimhen would bring an impressive goal-scoring record, having netted 76 goals in 133 appearances for Napoli prior to his loan. His Champions League record is also notable, with nine goals in 17 matches in Europe’s premier competition.
This summer is anticipated to be busy for Manchester United, with plans for up to four new signings in addition to a center forward, including targets for defensive midfield, center-back, and wing-back positions.
