Manchester United, one of the Premier League giants, remain optimistic about completing a major transfer for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, according to football transfer expert Ben Jacobs.
Osimhen, a 26-year-old Napoli striker currently on loan to Turkish side Galatasaray, was the subject of widespread transfer speculation last summer, with Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and Saudi Arabian clubs vying for his signature.
However, the Nigerian forward turned down a move to Saudi Arabia, while negotiations with Chelsea and PSG failed to materialize. Napoli subsequently loaned him to Galatasaray, where he has impressed with 13 goals in 17 matches this season.
The Red Devils are in desperate need of a reliable striker. Although the club signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna last summer, the forward has struggled to make an impact. Osimhen has emerged as a “dream” target for Manchester United, but the financial complexities surrounding the deal are substantial.
Jacobs, speaking to The United Stand said: “Victor Osimhen is a Man Utd dream target. But financially, it’s very difficult, even with that release clause dropping to €75 million. Nothing is possible in January, and Osimhen still insists on a permanent move.”
Jacobs also noted that United face additional hurdles, including Osimhen’s reported wage demands of €250,000 per week. The scenario bears similarities to the club’s failed pursuit of Harry Kane due to financial constraints.
Osimhen recently signed a new contract with Napoli, reducing his release clause significantly from €130 million to €75 million. While Galatasaray are reportedly keen on making the loan move permanent, the Nigerian forward has set his sights on joining one of Europe’s elite clubs, with the Premier League among his preferred destinations.
United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and club executives are eager to bring Osimhen to Old Trafford.
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