In a striking move that underlines their ambition for the 2024/25 season, Manchester United are reportedly gearing up to table a substantial offer for Napoli’s Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. The Bureau Newspaper has learned from reliable sources that the English Premier League heavyweights are preparing a €110 million bid to secure the services of the sought-after forward in the upcoming transfer window.
Following the acquisition of Manchester United by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Group, the club is keen on a significant squad revamp to bolster their chances in the Premier League and beyond. Osimhen, with his impressive track record, has emerged as a prime target for United who are eager to make a bold statement in the transfer market.
Despite competition from top clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and Chelsea, Manchester United seems to be leading the race for the Nigerian international. Osimhen’s exceptional talent has not gone unnoticed, with a stellar performance last season that saw him netting 26 goals in 32 Serie A matches, propelling Napoli to their first league title in over three decades.
The 25-year-old forward’s contribution to Napoli has been monumental, notching up 31 goals across all competitions last season and maintaining a strong form with 13 goals this season despite facing setbacks due to injuries and national team duties at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Manchester United’s pursuit of Osimhen is driven by their need for a prolific striker, a void that has been felt since Robin van Persie’s departure in 2015. Osimhen’s potential arrival at Old Trafford is anticipated to significantly enhance the team’s attacking capabilities.
Osimhen’s remarkable achievements have placed him among the most coveted strikers in Europe. Besides leading Serie A in scoring, he made history by becoming the first African to finish as the top scorer in Italy’s premier football league. His accolades also include being named the Serie A Player of The Year for the 2022/23 season and finishing eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings, the first Nigerian to achieve such a feat.
With his recent win as the African Footballer of The Year, beating notable contenders like Achraf Hakimi and Mohamed Salah, Osimhen’s stock continues to rise. Manchester United’s interest in him is a testament to his extraordinary talent and the impact he could bring to the Premier League. As negotiations are expected to unfold, fans and observers alike will be keenly watching to see if Osimhen will don the red of Manchester United in the near future.
