Manchester United Eyes Victor Osimhen Amid Striker Search
Victor Osimhen, the Galatasaray striker, remains a prime target for Manchester United as the club intensifies its pursuit of a new center-forward this summer, according to reports from PUNCH Sports Extra.
The Turkish club appears hesitant to part ways with the Nigerian international, placing a hefty €150 million valuation on him. Despite this, United continues to monitor Osimhen, particularly as several alternative targets have recently become unavailable.
CaughtOffside provides insights into United’s transfer strategy, revealing that the club plans to secure at least three more signings before the window closes, with a striker being a top priority.
United has already bolstered its squad with the additions of Andrej Santos, Youri Tielemans, Karl Darlow, and Tynan Thompson. Santos and Tielemans are expected to enhance the midfield, while Darlow provides essential cover for first-choice goalkeeper Senne Ramens. Eighteen-year-old winger Thompson is seen as a promising long-term attacking option.
The Athletic reports that Manchester United is also weighing its options in attack, particularly as Benjamin Sesko is still recovering from a shin injury that prevented him from participating in the pre-season trip to Finland.
In Sesko’s absence, Joshua Zirkzee has taken on the role of striker, but sources indicate that the Dutch forward may return to Italy after struggling to make an impact at Old Trafford.
As reported by CaughtOffside on May 30, Osimhen is considered United’s “dream” signing, presenting manager Michael Carrick with an elite option in the No. 9 position. However, the significant €150 million fee remains a considerable barrier to a potential transfer.
United has also explored other options, including Robert Lewandowski, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Eli Junior Crupi, and Dusan Vlahovic. However, Lewandowski is no longer a feasible target after his recent move to MLS side Chicago Fire.
On June 26, journalist Ben Jacobs mentioned that INEOS is looking at experienced forwards Danny Welbeck and Ivan Toney as potential alternatives to support Sesko.
After missing out on midfield targets Elliott Anderson and Matheus Fernandes, United shifted its focus to Atalanta’s Ederson. Reports indicate that Ederson failed a medical, prompting the club to pursue Santos and Tielemans instead.
United spent £50 million to bring Santos from Chelsea and activated Tielemans’ £35 million release clause at Aston Villa, totaling £85 million—matching Tottenham Hotspur’s expenditure on Fernandes.
The Athletic also highlights that, alongside a striker, United is actively seeking a third central midfielder to complete their midfield overhaul. The club aims to acquire a combative midfielder capable of covering substantial ground.
Bournemouth’s Alex Scott is a player that United holds in high regard, but the Cherries seem unwilling to let him go this summer, even as the England youth international has turned down a new contract. Meanwhile, Roma midfielder Manu Kone has emerged as a significant target, with formal negotiations reportedly underway.
In addition to reinforcing the midfield, Manchester United is also keen on adding a striker and a left-back before the transfer window closes.
