Manchester United has reignited their pursuit of Victor Osimhen, with Napoli indicating willingness to negotiate, possibly around the £110 million release clause in the Nigerian striker’s contract.
Osimhen, 25, has been a target for United since last summer. Manager Erik ten Hag has been seeking a new center-forward to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, who departed for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr. Ronaldo’s mid-season exit left United thin on attacking options, a situation exacerbated by Anthony Martial’s departure on a free transfer.
With only Rasmus Hojlund as the recognized first-team striker at Old Trafford, United is on the hunt for a player to partner with the Danish forward. Last summer, Osimhen was among the top candidates, but financial constraints and his recent Serie A triumph with Napoli hindered the transfer.
Despite these setbacks, United has been given a renewed opportunity. Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has made it clear that Osimhen’s departure has been anticipated. In January, De Laurentiis remarked, “We knew that since last summer [Osimhen was going to leave]. That’s why the contract negotiations were so drawn out and amicable… but we knew perfectly well that he would go to Real Madrid, to PSG, or to an English team.” This statement has positioned United favorably in the race to sign Osimhen.
Circumstances have since changed, with Real Madrid investing heavily in Kylian Mbappe and PSG no longer an attractive option for Osimhen. The Premier League, therefore, emerges as the ideal next step for the Nigerian striker. However, United must be cautious of overpaying, especially considering De Laurentiis hinted at a significant release clause in Osimhen’s contract, potentially around £110 million.
As the transfer window progresses, Napoli might be compelled to accept an offer below the release clause to facilitate the move and avoid friction with Osimhen. This scenario could benefit United, allowing them to secure a top-class striker without exorbitant expenditure.
