Man Utd interest in £63m move for top striker target | OneFootball

Victor Osimhen and Manchester United: A Transfer That Makes Sense?

The search for Manchester United’s long-term centre-forward has taken many twists and turns, and now, Victor Osimhen has re-emerged as a potential solution. According to The Mirror, Napoli are keen to bring Rasmus Højlund back to Serie A as part of a swap deal that would see Osimhen move to Old Trafford.

It is an intriguing prospect, one that reflects both the struggles of United’s attacking line and the inevitable movement of elite strikers in the upcoming transfer window. But is this a move that benefits all parties?

Osimhen’s Proven Track Record

Osimhen is a name that has hovered around United’s transfer radar for some time. With 26 goals in all competitions this season, he has continued to show why he is regarded as one of Europe’s deadliest strikers. A mixture of pace, power, and clinical finishing, he has the attributes that Ruben Amorim’s system desperately needs.

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Unlike Højlund, who has struggled for consistency in his first season at United, Osimhen is an established finisher. His spell at Galatasaray on loan from Napoli has further cemented his reputation as a forward capable of thriving in high-pressure situations. His performances in Turkey have also attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Chelsea.

What Happens to Højlund?

Højlund arrived at Old Trafford with great expectations following his £72m transfer from Atalanta, but it has been a season of mixed fortunes. The Danish striker has only managed 13 goals in the Premier League and has often looked isolated in United’s dysfunctional attack.

Speaking after ending a 21-game goal drought against Leicester, Højlund admitted he has struggled to adapt. “I think obviously I’ve not been on top of my game as I wanted to… But I think I’ve been growing into it lately and starting to look a bit better.”

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Despite his young age and clear potential, Napoli see an opportunity. Antonio Conte, looking to rebuild his squad, is eager to add another striker alongside Romelu Lukaku as the club prepares for its return to the Champions League.

A move back to Serie A could be beneficial for Højlund. He knows the league well from his time at Atalanta, and under Conte, he would have the chance to develop without the same level of scrutiny he faces in England.

Financial and Tactical Considerations

Napoli are expected to demand £63m for Osimhen, while United reportedly value Højlund at £50m. That would mean United would likely need to pay an additional fee to secure the Nigerian striker’s services.

Financially, this could make sense for United, especially with Napoli having funds available following the £59m sale of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to PSG. But the deal would also raise tactical questions—would Osimhen suit United’s current playing style?

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A dynamic striker who thrives in fast transitions, Osimhen would be best utilised with a system that plays to his strengths. If United persist with slow, possession-based football, there is a risk he could face similar struggles to Højlund. But if Amorim adapts, Osimhen could provide the goalscoring presence United have lacked since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.

A Logical Move or Another Gamble?

While swapping an unproven Premier League striker for one of Europe’s top marksmen seems like an obvious move on paper, it is not without its risks. Højlund still has time to develop, and selling him now could prove premature. However, for a club that needs immediate results, Osimhen could be the answer.

United’s biggest issue remains their lack of structure in recruitment. If they pursue Osimhen, they must ensure he is not just a short-term fix, but part of a long-term strategy to rebuild the club.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United fans, the prospect of Victor Osimhen leading the line at Old Trafford is an exciting one. A proven goalscorer, a physical presence, and a forward who thrives on quick attacking transitions—he could be the perfect fit for Amorim’s side.

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Højlund, despite flashes of promise, has found life tough in England. His struggles have been as much about United’s inconsistent system as they have been about his own adaptation. But patience is often a luxury Premier League clubs cannot afford. If United want to return to the top quickly, a move for Osimhen makes sense.

Osimhen has shown he can perform in multiple leagues, and at 25, he is entering his prime. He has the experience of leading an attack and delivering in crucial moments, something United have lacked in their No.9 role for some time. While Napoli’s £63m asking price is significant, United have spent more on players with far less impact.

There are concerns, of course. United’s recruitment has often been reactive rather than proactive. If Osimhen arrives, will he get the service he needs? Will he be the missing piece or another big-money signing that fails to live up to expectations?