Italian journalist Gianluca di Marzio has given his verdict on Manchester United’s chances of signing Victor Osimhen this summer.
Osimhen is high on United’s shortlist of summer striker targets, reports ESPN, along with Harry Kane and Benjamin Sesko.
The striker’s impressive form for table-topping Napoli could make him the most expensive of the trio. He is currently the top scorer in Serie A.
His price is a warning for United, with Osimhen expected to cost United a club record fee, presenting it’s own challenges for the club.
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Di Marzio on Osimhen to Manchester United
Speaking to Soccernews, Italian transfer expert Di Marzio says he knows United’s interest in the striker is serious.
He explained: “I don’t think any of these transfers will get through in the winter transfer window. But I wouldn’t be surprised if United play Victor Osimhen in the summer, because they wanted to sign him ahead of this season.”
With Napoli on course to win their first title in three decades, there are questions over whether they would then be willing to let Osimhen go.
Di Marzio believes title success makes Osimhen’s exit more likely, commenting: “If Napoli wins Serie A this season, my expectation is that they will let him go.”
Commenting on his valuation, he added: “Man United have to pay at least 120 million euros for him, but Premier League clubs have that option, so it could well happen.
“Manchester United certainly want to sign him, but there are other clubs who are planning the same. It is inevitable that his name will soon be mentioned in various boardrooms.”
He is no doubt alluding to big spending Chelsea, who seem to be targeting everyone and anyone.
United’s ability to pay for Osimhen is dependent on three issues; whether a takeover goes through, player sales to comply with Financial Fair Play, and if there is a chance to land Jude Bellingham, who would command a similar fee. This would lead to United looking at a cheaper strike option instead.
Osimhen also needs to stay injury free. He has never made more than 25 league starts for any club in his career. For a club to spend a record transfer on him, he must prove his fitness and regular availability.
Earlier this week Osimhen was urged to sign for Manchester United by a Nigerian music artist.