Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a cut-price move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with new head coach Ruben Amorim identifying the Napoli forward as his top transfer target this summer.
The Red Devils, grappling with an underwhelming goal return this season, are eager to reinforce their frontline. Amorim believes Osimhen is the ideal solution to their attacking woes, with the 26-year-old boasting an impressive 29 goals in 34 appearances while on loan at Galatasaray this season.
Currently entering the final year of his contract with Napoli, Osimhen’s situation presents a golden opportunity for United. Napoli must sell now or risk losing the player for free next year, and with Manchester United operating under financial constraints due to Profit and Sustainability Rules, club officials believe a £40million deal is achievable—significantly below his market value.
United’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to favour signings like Osimhen—players who are young, talented, and still have room to grow, both in performance and market value. The Nigerian striker fits the bill perfectly, combining youth with high-level experience, including Champions League campaigns and leading Napoli to a historic Serie A title in the 2022/23 season.
Osimhen’s arrival would offer much-needed relief to United’s misfiring frontline. Current first-choice striker Rasmus Hojlund, a £72m signing, has struggled for form, registering just one goal in his last 28 outings. With Joshua Zirkzee sidelined through injury and Kobbie Mainoo being deployed in an unfamiliar advanced role, the urgency for a new striker has intensified.
Although United are also monitoring Ipswich’s Liam Delap—available for £30million—Amorim reportedly favours Osimhen due to his pedigree and experience on the European stage.
In addition to targeting Osimhen, United are expected to offload several big-name players to finance Amorim’s squad rebuild. Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony, Casemiro, and even promising winger Alejandro Garnacho could be sold if suitable offers arrive. Wolves forward Matheus Cunha is also on the radar as part of the reshuffle.
Amorim recently emphasized the importance of smart recruitment this summer, stating, “There are characteristics we don’t have in our squad and we are trying to see about the gaps we have.”
If Manchester United can secure Osimhen at a reduced fee, it could mark the beginning of a new era at Old Trafford—one built on youth, hunger, and proven quality up front.
