In a recent tweet, Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg stated that Manchester United have cooled their interest in Napoli forward Victor Osimhen. It has been claimed that the Red Devils believe the Nigerian striker to be too expensive for them to pursue next summer.
News #Osimhen: He is still on the list of #MUFC but no longer the top transfer target in summer. Biggest problem: Too expensive! Neapel wants more than €100m. Been told: Man Utd board is not willing to pay that price and is therefore looking for cheaper solutions. @SkySportDE 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/j4zTtblwrq
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 23, 2023
Osimhen’s Excellent Numbers In Italian Football This Season
Osimhen is enjoying a brilliant campaign at the Naples club as he has managed to produce several match-winning performances as the focal point of their attack. The 24-year-old has banged in 14 goals and grabbed four assists in 19 matches for the Italian outfit this season in all competitions.
The Lagos-born talent has led the line with conviction for Napoli and has done well to average 4.2 shots, 1.1 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A. However, he needs to work on improving his ball distribution after making 73% of his attempted passes in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Italian club is set to run out in the summer of 2025. Thus, it won’t be easy for Man United to sign him on the cheap at the end of this campaign.
What Should Manchester United Boss Erik Ten Hag Do With Regards To Osimhen?
Osimhen is proficient at finding space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He has proven his worth as a prolific presence in front of the opponent’s half.
The Nigerian sensation can even create some decent chances for his teammates to find the back of the net and can make some powerful runs with the ball on the attacking third of the field. He has proven himself to be a capable forward for Napoli up top but there are some concerns over whether he would be able to cope with the physicality and high intensity of regular Premier League football.
Osimhen would have no doubt added plenty of pace, power and goals to Man United head coach Erik ten Hag‘s attack. However, Napoli’s €100m price tag for the player might be too expensive for the Red Devils.
However, if the Mancunian giants can secure a top-four place in the Premier League this season, ten Hag should think about moving in for the Nigerian international.
At 24, Osimhen’s best years are ahead of him, so he is well-equipped to make an instant impact at Old Trafford as long as he can make a smooth transition to life in English football.
