Manchester United are prepared to sign one of Napoli’s most prized assets this summer.
The Red Devils have struggled in the final third this season, scoring only 29 goals in 25 games in the Premier League.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have flattered to deceive, and manager Ruben Amorim will want an upgrade in the off-season.
Napoli star Victor Osimhen has been linked with the club for some time, and they could swoop for him this summer, according to Italian journalist Emanuele Cammaroto.
In his column for Napoli Magazine, he said that United and Chelsea are among the strong contenders and would be ‘ready to pay’ his £62 million release clause.
Osimhen is willing to join another European club on his current £8.2 million per year salary, but Al-Ahli could prove to be a stumbling block for potential suitors.
Saudi Pro League giants could offer a mammoth annual salary of £25m to convince the striker described as ‘world-class‘ by Jose Mourinho to sign for them.
United unlikely to pursue a deal for Osimhen
The Red Devils have plenty of budget constraints at the moment. They managed just one major signing in Patrick Dorgu from Lecce this winter for £25m.
Their situation may not improve unless they go all the way and lift the Europa League title. In that way, they can guarantee Champions League football and extra revenue.
A summer spending spree could partly depend on player sales. Alejandro Garnacho or Kobbie Mainoo could be sold to secure pure profit for the financial books.
United are unlikely to pursue a deal for Osimhen. The club are not in a position to pay the £62m transfer fee in a single payment to trigger the clause.
Osimhen’s age could be another roadblock. United reportedly don’t want to sign Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres. He will be 27 in June, and the club prefer a younger striker.
Osimhen is only six months younger and may not fit into United’s policy. The speculation is probably agent-driven. Osimhen may end up joining Al-Ahli, having come close last summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
