Manchester United have to break the bank to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen this summer, according to Corriere dello Sport (page 12).
The Red Devils are expected to pursue a new striker during the upcoming transfer window and Osimhen is one of the top names on their radar.
The Nigerian has had a fantastic season with 30 goals and five assists from 38 games but it appears he could cost a significant transfer fee.
Corriere dello Sport claim that Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis wants at least €150 million for the striker. The price tag could be raised.
United ‘want’ to sign the former Lille striker but they are not alone. Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also keen.
Osimhen deal unlikely without takeover
United’s main priority for the summer is the centre-forward department. Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane is the top target but a deal won’t be easy.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy could play hardball in negotiations with United and could prefer to sell the England captain to an overseas club this summer.
The Red Devils are likely to make an approach for the 32-goal star but in our opinion, they should not enter into a prolonged transfer saga.
If Kane does not ask for a summer exit, United should look at alternative options such as Goncalo Ramos, Randal Kolo Muani as well as Osimhen.
Among the three, Osimhen appears the most difficult transfer to pull off. De Laurentiis is a notorious negotiator and won’t provide any discount.
We don’t see United making such a huge outlay on Osimhen if the Glazers continue as the club’s owners.
There could be a limited budget for the summer but the scenario could change with a takeover. Until that happens, a move for Osimhen is unlikely.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
