- In principle, Manchester United and Ruben Amorim have agreed to bring aboard a promising African forward.
- The Red Devils plan to activate the player's €75 million release clause in order to secure their signing as United look to strengthen for the upcoming season.
- Even with his achievements at the club level, the prolific forward was unable to find the back of the net against Ghana during the 180 minutes of World Cup qualifier matches.
Manchester United are apparently closer to securing their prolonged objective, Victor Osimhen, as they are rumored to have reached a preliminary accord anticipated before the summer transfer window opens.
The forward from Napoli, who is currently playing on loan with Galatasaray, has caught Manchester United's attention across multiple transfer windows. Now, it seems that the Red Devils are prepared to take action.
United set to activate €75 million release clause
As reported by Tuttosport, the club with 20 Premier League titles under their belt is ready to trigger Osimhen’s release clause, which reportedly stands at around €75 million (£64m/$86m).
This step would conclude the team's extended chase of the Nigerian national player, who had earlier attracted interest from Chelsea and several other top-tier European clubs.
Last summer, after parting ways with Napoli, the 26-year-old player had a temporary stint with Galatasaray due to potential suitors hesitating because of Napoli's high asking price.
Currently, as Napoli seems willing to engage in talks, United aims to take advantage of this circumstance.
Rasmus Højlund Might Be Part of the Agreement
A particularly fascinating aspect of the possible agreement is the incorporation of Rasmus Højlund within the deal.
The forward from Denmark, who arrived at Manchester United amid great anticipation, has experienced an inconsistent first season at Old Trafford.
Although glimpses of talent have shown through, consistency and self-assurance have been absent.
It is thought that Napoli has shown interest in the promising forward as a potential long-term successor to Osimhen.
A player-plus-cash deal could thus facilitate discussions, potentially allowing Højlund to move to Serie A for a new beginning that might be advantageous for everyone concerned.
Osimhen's struggles against Ghana
Despite being one of Africa’s top forwards recently, Osimhen has experienced some disappointing performances in crucial matches on the continent, notably those against the Black Stars.
In the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification playoffs, Nigeria competed against Ghana in a two-leg series which concluded as a 0-0 draw in Kumasi and a 1-1 stalemate in Abuja. Ghana moved forward due to their superior performance in away matches.
Although Osimhen played in both matches, he couldn't penetrate the solid Ghanaian defense.
Although his performance drew criticism upon returning home, he continues to maintain an impressive goalscoring record with his team.
Striker in his prime
Even though he faced some international setbacks, Osimhen’s standing in club football continues to be strong, having scored more than 120 goals for teams like Lille, Napoli, and Galatasaray.
He was instrumental during Napoli’s victorious 2022/23 Serie A campaign, securing the Golden Boot as well, and he has since showcased his skills through a temporary stint in Turkish football.
Should the transfer go through, Osimhen would add essential scoring power to Manchester United’s offense, an area that has been missing a reliable target this campaign.
Osimhem to become United's expensive African signing
Diwida >.gh Earlier reports suggested that if Manchester United ultimately secure a deal for the Nigerian striker, he will become the costliest African player ever signed by the Premier League club.
The former Lille forward would also secure a spot within Manchester United's top eight most costly acquisitions ever.
In recent years, the team from Old Trafford has had difficulty attracting top-tier strikers. Historically, Manchester United was renowned for having exceptional forwards such as Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.