Napoli and Manchester United are engaged in advanced talks over the potential transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with the Italian club reportedly willing to offer the Red Devils a discount on the player’s release clause. According to Il Mattino, Napoli director Giovanni Manna has flown to London to discuss the sale of the 26-year-old with United officials.
Osimhen’s release clause has dropped to €75m (£64m) this summer, but reports suggest Napoli are willing to negotiate a lower fee for Premier League clubs to avoid strengthening direct Serie A rivals, particularly Juventus. “It is certainly complicated to deal with Juventus, who have also started their contacts with Osimhen’s entourage. Victor would have no problem wearing the black and white shirt; the problem is the frostiness between (Juventus sporting director Cristiano) Giuntoli and the blue club,” Il Mattino added.
United have reportedly made Osimhen their No.1 target this summer, according to transfer insider Rudy Galetti, with the Nigerian striker said to be open to a move to Old Trafford despite the club’s current struggles and possible lack of European football next season. The Red Devils are desperate to bolster their attacking options, having scored just 37 goals in 31 Premier League matches this season.
Chelsea also held talks with Manna during his London visit, but the Blues are understood to be prioritizing a move for Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, whom manager Enzo Maresca feels is better suited to their system. Arsenal have reportedly submitted a bid for the Nigeria international, while Liverpool, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain are said to be monitoring the situation closely.
Napoli and Manchester United already have a good relationship following Scott McTominay’s transfer between the clubs last summer, which could potentially smooth negotiations for Osimhen. The Nigerian striker has been in fine form during his loan spell at Galatasaray, with 28 goals in 32 appearances, and is currently focused on helping the Turkish club win the Super Lig and Turkish Cup.
The talks between Napoli and Manchester United suggest that a deal for Osimhen could be imminent. With United’s interest in the player and Napoli’s willingness to negotiate, a transfer could be on the cards. As the situation continues to unfold, fans will be eagerly waiting to see if Osimhen makes the move to Old Trafford.