English Premier League giants Manchester United have made a fresh approach for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen as they seek a replacement for struggling forwards Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee, The PUNCH reports.
Sources close to the transfer situation revealed that the Nigeria international had emerged as a top target for new United manager Ruben Amorim, who left both Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho out of his squad for Sunday’s Manchester derby.
The 25-year-old, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has been in scintillating form in Turkey, netting 10 goals and providing five assists in 13 appearances across all competitions.
However, Juventus appear to be leading the race for his signature as they look to replace Dusan Vlahovic, with sources indicating the Serie A giants could be Osimhen’s preferred destination following his previous success in Italy.
United face more competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal, with former Gunners midfielder Emmanuel Petit backing his old club to make a January move for the Nigerian.
The striker’s situation is further complicated by his €75m release clause, with Napoli director Giovanni Manna recently dismissing speculation about a January move.
“I already said many times that nobody has talked to us. Victor is owned by Napoli and currently playing for Galatasaray. I think a lot has been said about this; nothing is happening,” Manna told DAZN.
Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the situation and could move for the Nigerian if Rashford, who has emerged as a target for the French champions, joins them from United.
Chelsea have also entered the race for Osimhen, with sources suggesting the London club could be a more attractive destination than United given their current trajectory.
The striker’s loan deal with Turkish league leaders Galatasaray includes a January break clause that could facilitate a mid-season move, though his next destination remains uncertain amid interest from several European giants.
(Punch)
